Invasive Plants to be Fought in Mystic River July 16

MELROSE, MA - Invasive plants are threatening the Mystic River and volunteers are fighting back July 16.

Eradication efforts of water chestnut, an invasive plant clogging the Mystic River and elsewhere in the watershed, have been ongoing since 2010. The Mystic River Watershed Association is aggressively combating water chestnuts by partnering with municipalities, local environmental organizations, boat clubs, corporations and community members to hand-pull the plant and obtain funding for a mechanical harvester, a release said.

"Make a difference in your local community at a fun event on the Mystic River! We coordinate volunteers to hand-pull water chestnut from canoes. Community Water Chestnut Removal Events are scheduled for Saturday July 16th and July 30th. All supplies are provided for these family-friendly events. Register (required) for the July 16 and July 30 events today!" a release said.