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Commission hears decline in water‑chestnut counts but warns eradication is a long‑term effort
Summary
Commissioners reported invasive water‑chestnut counts fell from about 1,300 last year to roughly 39 this year, but cautioned seeds can persist for up to 10 years and long‑term vigilance will be required.
At the Stockbridge meeting, the chair (S1) told the commission that the contractor’s survey found a sharp decline in water‑chestnut numbers this season. “It had been, you know, like 1,300 last year and it was like 39 this year,” S1 said, citing contractor counts and local observations.
Commissioners and SBA representatives urged continued monitoring because seed pods can remain viable for years. One participant summarized the expert guidance reported to the commission: the seed pods can persist for up to 10 years, so eradication requires consistent treatment across seasons. The commission discussed the status of the town’s weed harvester, recent contractor changes, and the need for continued coordination among the SBA, the town, and other stakeholders.
No policy vote was recorded; members emphasized the work is ongoing and the SBA annual meeting will include further discussion of lake management.
