Wayland panel authorizes continuation of Heard Pond water chestnut management including herbicide option

The Wayland Conservation Commission voted on May 27 to authorize continuation of the Heard Pond water chestnut management program, combining hand‑pulling and a targeted herbicide application under the same terms and conditions approved last year.

Tom Klem of the Surface Water Quality Committee told the Commission that the herbicide application permitted last year was less effective than projected and the committee seeks another treatment this season to reduce infestations, particularly in South Cove, to levels manageable by hand‑pulling crews. Klem said hand‑pulling will continue; however, staffing and equipment limitations (including contractor Solitude’s availability) are expected to reduce the amount of manual removal compared with previous years.

Staff reminded the committee that the permit includes reporting requirements documenting treatment locations and results; Klem acknowledged that last year’s treatment report still needs to be submitted and agreed to provide it as soon as possible. Klem said the expected timing for treatment this year is mid‑to‑late June, subject to contract execution, water levels and temperature. Commissioners approved the continuation of the program by roll call vote.

The authorization directs program managers to submit outstanding reports from the previous season, to coordinate with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service staff where property lines are close, and to proceed with hand‑pulling and a limited herbicide application only under the previously approved terms and conditions.