The Water Chestnut Plant
MAYVILLE – It’s turning out to be an uphill battle against an invasive water species that can be a major problem and nuisance for county residents.
Chautauqua County Executive Greg Edwards and Chautauqua County Watershed Coordinator Jeff Diers say that several water chestnut sightings have been reported in small private ponds in the Towns of Carroll, Kiantone, and Poland, as well as Chautauqua Lake near Bemus Creek, Burtis Bay, and the mouth of the outlet.
Edwards says that he’s asked all private pond owners, lake shore residents and visitors throughout Chautauqua County take a few minutes to inspect the waterways near their properties for any potential signs of water chestnut. He’s also encouraging residents to take part in the County’s mass search for water chestnut on Chautauqua Lake this Saturday to help us prevent this invasive species from spreading.
The mass search will take place on Saturday, July 20, 2013 at 8 a.m. at the Stow Park landing of the Bemus Point- Stow Ferry. Participants are encouraged to bring sunscreen, hats, waders, water boots, kayaks, canoes, or boats to aid in the search and should call Jeff Diers at (716) 661-8915 for additional information.
Elsewhere in the County this summer, the Jamestown Audubon Society and the Chautauqua County Department of Planning and Economic Development have worked together to coordinate volunteer efforts to remove water chestnuts that have taken over Big Pond. Those interested in taking part in the water chestnut removal at the preserve should call (716) 569-2345.
Water chestnut is a rooted, aquatic annual plant that can reach up to 15 feet in length and has a rosette of floating leaves, which are green, glossy, and triangular with toothed edges. Anyone who finds this invasive species should call the watershed hotline at 363-4499, 753-4499, or 661-7499.
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