INVASIVE SPECIES VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

Help us restore our beloved Charles River!

Volunteer for Invasive Species Removals!

Join us for an unforgettable day removing invasive species to restore the Charles River ecosystem! Our work to tackle invasive species is only possible with your help. Explore our opportunities!

WHAT ARE INVASIVE SPECIES?

Fast-growing, non-native plants that outcompete native species and quickly overtake the ecosystem, invasives reduce biodiversity, degrade water quality, harm flood resilience, kill mature trees, and destroy wildlife habitat.

With the help of hundreds of volunteers taking part in our invasive removal volunteer program, proactive management techniques, and efforts to curb stormwater pollution, we’re working together to restore a biodiverse, healthy river ecosystem.

Learn more

COMMUNITY REMOVAL EVENTS

Each year, we host several community removal events. These fun, family-friendly events are a great way to explore our watershed, meet new friends, and make a difference for our river. Registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis.

BITTERSWEET PLANT REMOVAL DATES

JULY 27
AUGUST 10
AUGUST 24
SEPTEMBER 14
SEPTEMBER 26
OCTOBER 5

WATER CHESTNUT REMOVAL DATES

JULY 25
AUGUST 16

GROUP INVASIVE REMOVAL EVENTS

Each year, we host group invasive removal events every Friday from mid-May to late September. These fun, lively events are great for team-building, all while making a difference for our river.

Explore our Group Fees & Sponsorship Benefits >>

Submit the interest form below and we will be in touch as soon as possible to answer your questions and complete your group registration.

Help us track invasives in the Charles River watershed!

While a comprehensive management plan is being executed in the Lakes District and Lower Basin, no plan exists for areas upstream. If you walk or paddle along the Charles, you can help us track invasive species!

iNaturalist is a free app where citizen scientists can easily take photos and share biodiversity information! Join CRWA’s iNaturalist group to help us better understand the aquatic invasive plants in the Charles.

I WANT TO GET INVOLVED

  • Bittersweet removal events usually run from May-early June and August-September and Water Chestnut removal events usually run from late June-July. Group events take place on Friday mornings.

  • Removal events take place on Friday morning from 9AM -12PM. Expect to arrive by 8:45 AM to check in and prepare for the event.

  • You are encouraged to bring your own pair of gloves, but Charles River Watershed Association will provide all the necessary equipment for a safe and enjoyable volunteer experience, including gloves, hand tools, life vests, and more.

  • Be ready to get messy! Invasive removal is hard work–dress appropriately with clothes you are comfortable with getting dirty, close toed shoes, appropriate sun protection, and layers in case the weather changes.

  • We host Bittersweet events across the watershed–opportunities are available in Watertown, Needham, Millis, Ashland, and Milford based on need. In 2024, Water Chestnut removal events are hosted in the Red Wing Bay section of the Charles River in Needham.

  • Water Chestnut events can accommodate up to 20 volunteers and Bittersweet removal events can accommodate up to 30 volunteers.

  • We would love to accommodate your group for your preferred date and activity or work with you to create a custom experience if staffing, resources, and need allows. Email Emily Reiling at ereiling@crwa.org.

  • Invasive removal events are team building volunteer opportunities for corporate groups. To ensure CRWA can continue to carry out this important restoration work in our watershed, we partner with corporate volunteer groups to cover expenses, staff time, and CRWA’s mission to protect and restore the Charles River Watershed. For non-corporate volunteers, we host three community removal events each season that are open to all.

FAQs