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VOLUNTEER

Charles River Watershed Association has a variety of volunteer opportunities available throughout the year. Most volunteer events take place in spring and summer, and more information is below. All volunteers receive a discount at CRWA events.

If you would like additional information about the projects below or other opportunities, please contact Lauren Ballou. In addition, we have a volunteer email list, which is mailed to on an as-needed basis whenever we have upcoming volunteer projects. If you would like to be added to the list, please use the form at right or contact Lauren Ballou.

Remove Invasive Water Chestnuts from the Charles

CRWA and Charles River Canoe and Kayak are partnering to help rid the river of water chestnuts each summer in July. We will be working based out of the Charles River Canoe and Kayak boathouse on Commonwealth Ave in Newton.

More Info

Annual Earth Day Charles River Cleanup

CRWA needs volunteer groups from businesses, universities, high schools, boy and girl scout troops, neighborhood groups, and other civic-minded groups to participate in our Annual Earth Day Charles River Cleanup in April. If you have a work, school, church, or neighborhood group that would like to participate in the cleanup, contact CRWA's Cleanup Coordinator.

Run of the Charles Canoe and Kayak Race

Many hands are needed to help with CRWA's annual canoe and kayak race the last weekend in April.  Pitch in prior to the event or at points along the river on race day.

For more information, Contact Meg at Classic Communications at 508-698-6810 or email charles@crwa.org.

Storm Drain Stenciling

Stenciling a storm drain consists of spray painting a message next to a street drain reminding people "Don't Dump — Drains to the Charles River." This is an ideal project for school groups, scouts, environmental clubs, stream teams and others. CRWA provides reusable stencils and directions for organizing a stenciling project, as well as advice, support, and connections to municipal officials.

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Water Monitoring

Volunteers are needed to take water quality samples on a monthly basis along the Charles River for CRWA's monthly water quality monitoring program. Sampling generally occurs the third Tuesday of each month at 6am. Volunteers will be fully trained by a CRWA staff member, and equipment will be provided. Volunteers are asked to commit to at least twelve months of sampling.

View Current Site Vacancies Keep in mind, you can ask to be put on the waiting list for a site that is already filled. Additionally, we are always looking for volunteers to be trained as substitutes, so even if sites in your area are full, there are always opportunities to assist with the program. Interested individuals can contact Lauren Ballou for more information or fill out a volunteer application form.

Environmental Science Internships