Recreational paddlers are encouraged to ‘Paddle with a Purpose’ this year in waterways across Niagara.

Join the Invasive Species Centre and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority at one of two Paddling Tours to learn how to identify and report European water chestnut (EWC) observations.

EWC (Trapas natans) is an aggressive invasive aquatic plant that has been detected in the Welland River. The dense floating leaves of EWC can shade out the water below, killing native vegetation and subsequently reducing water oxygen levels. The plants also get tangled in boat motors and make swimming almost impossible.

WHERE: E.C. Brown Conservation Area E.C. Brown Conservation Authority (544 River Rd., Fenwick, Pelham, L0S 1C0). Paddlers will head west toward Wellandport for ~1.5 km to find the first known population of EWC.

To participate, you need to bring your own boat or other recreational watercraft and personal safety gear, and registering in advance is highly encouraged.

To learn more about the EWC Rapid Response Program, click here.