Current News
The Changing Balance of Invasive Species in Sudbury’s Waterways
The treatment of European Water Chestnut infestations in Sudbury’s waterways has so far been a success. Thanks to ongoing removal efforts, areas once smothered by dense mats of this invasive plant are now open to sunlight and oxygen, creating more favorable conditions for aquatic life. As a result, many submerged plants that had been previously choked out are beginning to return and thrive. However, while the removal of the European Water Chestnut has helped restore ecological balance in some ways, it has also created space for other invasive species to emerge. One such species is Curly-Leaf Pondweed (Potamogeton crispus), which is now becoming the dominant invasive threat in Sudbury’s aquatic ecosystems.
Curly-Leaf Pondweed is a fast-growing, non-native plant that thrives in similar conditions to the water chestnut. It begins growing early in the spring before many native plants have a chance to establish, forming thick underwater beds that can crowd out native vegetation and alter the natural habitat. By early summer, it dies back, often releasing nutrients into the water that can fuel algae growth and further disrupt the ecosystem.
More Treatment
As new invasive species, like Curly-Leaf Pondweed, continue to spread in Sudbury’s waterways, additional treatment is becoming necessary to protect the health of the ecosystem. Currently, discussions are ongoing among environmental experts, local officials, and conservation teams to determine the most effective treatment strategies, ones that not only control the spread of invasive plants but also minimize negative impacts on native species and the broader aquatic ecosystem. In the meantime, our team is actively monitoring affected waterways, tracking the growth of invasive populations, and collecting data to guide future action. This careful, science-based approach ensures that any decisions made will be both effective and environmentally responsible.
Our Goal
Our goal is to preserve and restore the health of Sudbury’s ponds and waterways for the benefit of current and future generations. Since 2020, the Hop Brook Protection Association has led targeted efforts to control the spread of the invasive European Water Chestnut in Grist Mill, Carding Mill, and Stearns Mill Ponds. While this project has proven successful, it has also created new opportunities for other invasive species to take hold. As we continue to monitor these changes, we remain committed to managing future invasive threats with the same careful, scientific approach ensuring the long-term protection and resilience of our local ecosystems.