Join a Plant Patrol Paddle – Protect Lake Winnecook from Invasives!

Invasive aquatic plants are one of the most serious threats to the long-term health of Maine lakes—including Lake Winnecook. Once they take hold, they are incredibly difficult - and expensive - to remove. But with a little effort from our community, we can detect and stop these invaders before they spread.

Why Early Detection Matters

While we do have a Courtesy Boat Inspector (CBI) checking boats on weekends, no one is actively surveying in the lake itself. That means we do not actually know whether invasives have already made it in.

Lakes less than 40 miles from Lake Winnecook are already fighting invasives—like variable milfoil and curly-leaf pondweed—and spending huge amounts of time and money to do it. We can avoid that future by acting now.

Be Part of the Solution: Organize a Plant Patrol Paddle

We are looking for community members to host an afternoon Plant Patrol Paddle Out with friends, family, or neighbors. These casual shoreline surveys are a great way to enjoy time on the water while helping protect our lake.

Our very own Dr. Ellen Batchelder, former Unity College Biology professor, will join your group to give a short tutorial on what to look for—then you will paddle together, surveying your shoreline for invasive plant species.

No experience needed—just a canoe or kayak, curiosity, and a love for the lake.

A Family-Friendly Civic Activity

This is a great educational opportunity for all ages. Adults and kids alike will learn how to identify both invasive and beneficial native aquatic plants. It is a fun and meaningful way to engage your household and neighbors in lake stewardship.

With enough participation from all areas of the lake, we can form a community-wide early warning network and stop the problem before it starts.

Get Involved!

If you are interested in hosting or joining a Plant Patrol Paddle this summer please use the form below

Together, we can protect what we love.
Let’s keep Lake Winnecook clean—not green or overgrown.