Many Maine lakes with high surrounding populations have dedicated and engaged volunteers, while larger remote lakes with fewer residents are unable to be surveyed effectively, leaving them vulnerable to invasive infestations and diminished water quality. IPP Jump-Starts are week-long trips to a lake (or lakes) of special interest for the purpose of conducting a full screening survey, aiming to understand the threat of AIS in these areas.
The Greater Pushaw Lake Jump-Start is a week-long survey on Pushaw Lake and Little Pushaw Pond in Orono, Maine. During this time, volunteers will aid in the search for aquatic invasive plants during a full screening survey of the lake, and gain experience in surveying techniques which can be brought back and applied to their local lakes. This IPP Jump-Start also serves as a means of outreach for The Greater Pushaw Lake Association.
LSM will provide housing for registered IPP Travel Team participants during the week.
Training is also provided by LSM for this survey. This includes formal hands-on training for the local community, which team members are welcome to join in on. Pre-registration is required and the registration form can be found at https://www.lakestewardsofmaine.org/ais-workshops/. Advanced training in plant taxonomy and surveying techniques are also included for Travel Team participants as part of the Jump-Start structure. Some advanced survey gear will also be provided.
Those participating in the Jump-Start must have attended or viewed the IPP 101 training course, though certification is not required. Various equipment including a shallow-draft boat (i.e. kayak, canoe), a personal floatation device, and other appropriate gear for various outdoor conditions are required. Should participants wish to attend but do not have their own watercraft, appropriate arrangements can be made. To join the IPP Travel Team for the Greater Pushaw Lake Jump-Start, please contact LSM directly.
This program is co-sponsored by Lake Stewards of Maine with The Greater Pushaw Lake Association.
Lake Stewards of Maine is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization which works to protect Maine lakes and to promote lake stewardship through widespread citizen participation in the gathering and dissemination of credible scientific information pertaining to lake health. For more information, please contact 207-783-7733, email stewards@lakestewardsme.org or visit www.lakestewardsofmaine.org.