The Water Chestnut Plant
MAYVILLE – Chautauqua County Executive Greg Edwards is announcing that a final mass search for water chestnuts will be held Saturday, September 15 at 8:30 a.m. at the Stow Park landing of the Bemus Point-Stow Ferry.
The water chestnut, an invasive aquatic plant species, was first discovered in Chautauqua Lake by EcoLogic LLC consultants in mid-July. Shortly after, Chautauqua County hosted its first mass search for the water chestnut, an event that drew nearly 40 volunteers. A second mass search for the plant was scheduled for August, but the event was cancelled due to the weather.
Chautauqua Watershed Coordinator Jeff Diers says that although this will be the last mass search for the water chestnut this season, the county will continue to monitor Chautauqua Lake and affected areas. He adds that they have only found a few cases of water chestnuts in Chautauqua Lake. Diers says that by next spring, the county will have a better understanding if our quick action and endeavors to contain the plant have paid off.
Volunteers who want to help out on Sept. 15 should report to the Stow Ferry Park where they will be given a short presentation on the water chestnut before being assigned to a zone.
Residents interested in participating should call the watershed hotline at 363-4499, 753-4499, or 661-7499.
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