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Sharon leaders, DEEP discuss steps to keep hydrilla out of Mudge Pond
Summary
At a Jan. 8 special meeting, First Selectman Flanagan and Connecticut DEEP representatives outlined volunteer monitoring, signage approvals and rapid-response steps to prevent invasive Hydrilla from entering Mudge Pond; DEEP said boat-washing requirements are beyond its launch authority.
First Selectman Flanagan and representatives of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection met Jan. 8 at Sharon Town Hall to discuss measures to prevent the invasive aquatic plant Hydrilla from reaching Mudge Pond.
The meeting centered on prevention, monitoring and possible responses if Hydrilla is detected. Ms. Kearcher presented a history of the pond and previous studies; town and state participants reviewed current volunteer control work, recent state inspections, and next steps for coordination.
Wendy Flynn, of DEEP’s Boating, Fishing and Connecticut River program, described a state volunteer monitoring program that trains volunteers to talk with boaters at launch sites, provide information and, where permitted, inspect boats. “The program is online May, June and July,” Flynn said, and she noted volunteers operating at a state launch would require a Special Use Agreement between the State and the Town.
The board reviewed local removal efforts carried out by the Mudge Pond Association, including hand-pulling of water chestnuts, and discussed herbicide use as a potential option. DEEP representatives said responses to a hydrilla detection would be collaborative and encouraged the Town or the association to consider joining the Connecticut Federation of Lakes for additional assistance.
Peter Francis of DEEP described a rapid-response protocol and told First Selectman Flanagan he would email the detailed steps to the Town for follow-up. DEEP staff also reported that the agency conducted 10 boat safety inspections at the state launch in 2025 and that boat-cleaning information is included with boating registration renewals as an outreach measure.
The Board noted the Town had installed a sign at the state boat launch about preventing Hydrilla, but the sign was removed. Flynn said DEEP requires prior approval for any signs at state launch sites and encouraged the town to pursue an approved sign through the agency’s processes.
Attendees asked how effective boat washing is at preventing the spread of invasive species. Flynn said the effectiveness is unknown and that the State lacks authority to require boat washing at its launch sites.
The meeting closed with a procedural motion: Ms. Kearcher moved to adjourn, Mr. Brett seconded, and the Board voted unanimously to adjourn at 1:56 p.m. DEEP representatives indicated willingness to work with the Town on monitoring, signage and maintenance at the launch, and to provide the rapid-response steps promised by Mr. Francis.
