Water Sampling at Nutts Pond |
Volunteer Opportunities
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Pond Clean Up Days
Pond Clean Ups are held biannually at several ponds. Thanks to all of our volunteers! 2005 clean up results are listed here.
For this spring's schedule, click here.
Volunteer Lake Assessment Program (VLAP)
The Volunteer Lake Assessment Program (VLAP) is a cooperative program between the NH Department of Environmental Services (DES) and lake reidents, or associations. Seven ponds in Manchester have been part of this program since 2000.
Sampling frequency is flexible. Manchester ponds are sampled monthly April through October. Water samples are taken to DES in Concord to be tested for total phosphorus, chlorophyll, conductivity, alkalinity, turbidity, and in some cases e. coli. Phytoplankton and zooplankton (microscopic plants and animals) are also collected as well as temperature data and dissolved oxygen data.
During the off-season, DES biologists interpret the water quality data and compile the results into an annual report for each lake. The biologists produce an annual newsletter, provide technical and educational materials, and notify volunteer monitors of regional workshops and important legislation. The volunteer monitors are proactive lake stewards who are concerned for the well-being of their lakes.
For more information: NH Volunteer Lake Assessment Program (exits City of Manchester website) |
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Brazilian Elodea, an invasive weed at Nutts Pond. Photo by Amy Smagula. |
Become a "Weed Watcher"
Through the volunteer Weed Watcher program, the NH DES has taken a proactive approach to exotic plant control. Many New Hampshire lake residents, lake associations, fishermen, and water recreationists are taking part in this program, and you can too!
Variable milfoil, fanwort, water chestnut, purple loosestrife and common reed are blanketing waterbodies throughout the state. Infestations of these plants lead to diminished wildlife habitat, decreased recreational potential, and lowered property values.
Unfortunately, eradication of these exotics is rearely possible. For any invasive species, our best available strategies are prevention and early detection. Some of these plants can grow up to an inch a day. If new infestations are caught early, low-tech methods like hand pulling can keep them under control and prevent lake-wide infestation.
Anyone can become a Weed Watcher. Lake residents, retirement groups, youth groups, fishing enthusiasts, and many others have been trained. Volunteers like these are the best line of defense because they are often the most familiar with the water bodies they choose to monitor.
Weed watching usually takes place once a month from late May through August. The Urban Ponds Restoration Program will instruct volunteers on how to conduct a weed survey, what to look for, and who to contact if there is a problem. Volunteers will also receive information on the program and details on the most threatening invasives. The only equipment a volunteer will need is a boat, a partner or two, and a nice bright summer day.
For more information go to: NH Exotic Species Program (exits City of Manchester website)
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