Aquatic Invasive Species in the Connecticut River

Aquatic invasive plants are reshaping our rivers and waterbodies across the region. In this LiveStream webinar, we explore the Connecticut River’s aquatic invasive plants with a focused look at water chestnut and hydrilla. We discuss how to recognize them, mechanisms that result in their spreading, and the short- and long-term impacts they have on our native ecosystems. We also cover practical ways you can get involved, from adding intention to your own recreational equipment management practices to hand pulling opportunities throughout the watershed.

Our lead speaker is Kelly Beerman, the Connecticut River Conservancy’s (CRC) Aquatic Invasive Species Program Manager. Kelly is responsible for directing, coordinating, and executing CRC’s work regarding hydrilla, water chestnut, and all aquatic invasives throughout the Connecticut River watershed. This includes current community education & outreach initiatives as well as designing and implementing future projects.

We were also joined by Toni Stewart and Jim Straub from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Lakes and Ponds Program.

Recorded on 04/15/2026

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About LiveStream: CRC brings your rivers to you! Join CRC staff and partners for a series of live lunchtime presentations, on select Wednesdays from Noon-1pm. You get to learn more about the rivers you love, ask questions, and interact with a river-loving community all from the comfort and safety of your home (or wherever you may be). LiveStream will be hosted via Zoom. Please register for each presentation to receive meeting information.

Find out more at ctriver.org/events

BCTV Requirements: By stating that your show meets BCTV requirements, you as Producer agree to the following: a. I am thoroughly familiar with the nature of the program material and take full responsibility for its content. b. I warrant and represent that the program does not contain prohibited material as defined in BCTV’s Policies and Procedures, including: i. Any program that is commercial in nature, intends to defraud the viewer, or contains a lottery, raffle, contest or game. ii. Any material which is libelous or slanderous or is an unlawful violation of privacy. iii. Any material that violates state or federal laws relating to obscenity. iv. Any material subject to copyright, ownership, royalty rights or residuals unless releases, licenses or other permissions have been obtained. c. I am required to obtain all necessary releases, clearances and permissions from any and all organizations, individuals and groups and provide BCTV with copies prior to broadcast. d. I agree to hold harmless and indemnify BCTV, its Board of Directors, and employees from any liability, loss, claim, cost, or damage of any nature stemming from the telecast of the program, including all legal fees and expenses involved in defending such a claim or action. Should a dispute arise between myself and BCTV which cannot be resolved by direct negotiation, I agree that my sole and final recourse will be arbitration by the Vermont Public Service Board. e. I agree to abide by all BCTV Policies and Procedures.

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