35th Run of the Charles: Boston's Premier Paddling Race

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About Charles River Watershed Association

Location:

190 Park Rd, Weston, MA 02493, US

Mission Statement

One of the country's oldest watershed organizations, Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) was formed in 1965 in response to public concern about the declining condition of the Charles. Since its earliest days of advocacy, At Charles River Watershed Association, we strive to: Develop a sound, science-based understanding of interactions in the watershed. Define long-term, cutting-edge solutions to watershed problems. Promote sustainable watershed management practices with government agencies and private entities. Advocate for the protection, revitalization, and expansion of public parklands along the Charles.

Description

The Canoeing for Clean Water Initiative strives to protect the Charles from invasive plant and animal species. The Water Chestnut Removal Prgram focuses on a specific threat the the river: The Water Chestnut.

This plant impacts recreational use of the river for boaters and swimmers and neighbors by narrowing the paddleable areas of the Charles. In addition or being a hinderance, the water chestnunt also decreases both the amount of sunlight reaching the river, as well as the flow rate of the water. Both of these factors lead to decreased oxygen levels, increased water temperatures, and less nutrient availability to more prodctive plant and wildlife.

Events will place up to 30 volunteers out on the river to hand-pull the weeds. Canoers will proceed to fill baskets and bring them to on land disposal sites where they will unload and then repeat the process again. Events last for 3-4 hours and usually start in the mornings around 9AM. Overall it is a fun day of free canoeing and a rewarding and beneficial experience for both the volunteers and the river.