Efforts continue this year to protect the ecological health of Hamburg Cove from invasive aquatic plants, including Hydrilla and water chestnut. Several important projects are underway and residents who enjoy the cove can play an important role in helping these efforts succeed.
Hydrilla Management Planning Continues
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), working with state and local partners, is continuing the planning process for long-term Hydrilla management in Hamburg Cove.
As part of the required permitting process, USACE will be undertaking surveys for state-listed species of concern within the cove and other areas in the region. These surveys help identify sensitive plants, mussels, frogs and other wildlife that must be considered before management activities can proceed.
In addition, USACE is planning a dye study in the larger Hamburg Cove area in mid-June. Similar testing was conducted in Falls Brook Cove last year. The dye study helps scientists better understand water movement and circulation patterns, information that is critical to developing effective Hydrilla management strategies.
Throughout the summer and fall, the Eightmile River Wild & Scenic Watershed will continue collecting water quality data in Hamburg Cove. This information is shared with USACE and other partners to support ongoing planning and environmental assessment efforts.
Residents interested in reviewing water quality information can visit the Eightmile River Wild & Scenic Watershed website and select the Hamburg Cove monitoring station.
Help Us Watch for Invasive Water Chestnut
While Hydrilla remains a significant concern, another invasive aquatic plant – water chestnut – has also been found in Hamburg Cove.
Water chestnut is an annual aquatic plant that forms floating rosettes of sharply toothed leaves. Although attractive in appearance, it can quickly spread and form dense mats that crowd out native vegetation, reduce habitat quality, and interfere with recreation and boating.
Last year, volunteers removed a substantial amount of water chestnut from the cove. Early detection and removal remain the best tools for preventing its spread.
If you spend time on Hamburg Cove this summer, please keep an eye out for water chestnut. The plant typically appears as a floating cluster of triangular, serrated leaves. Later in the season, it produces distinctive dark seeds with sharp barbed spines.
If you spot water chestnut, please report:
- Date observed
- Location (GPS coordinates if available)
- Approximate number of plants
- Whether any plants were removed
Reports may be sent to info@eightmileriver.org.
The Eightmile River Wild & Scenic Watershed plans to organize volunteer harvesting efforts later this season. Community participation is critical to protecting the health of Hamburg Cove and preserving this unique natural resource for future generations.
Thank you to everyone who helps monitor, protect and care for one of Lyme’s most treasured waterways.