Citizen Science by Kayak

Policeman's Helmet. Photo courtesy of Simplicius.

The North Coast Land Conservancy and Necanicum Watershed Council are seeking skilled kayakers interested in participating in a citizen science project that will contribute to the eradication of an invasive species.

The groups seek to seek out and destroy Policeman’s Helmet (Impatiens glandulifera), an invasive plant that, in just four years, has spread widely throughout the Necanicum watershed.  Experienced kayakers are sought to adopt stretches of the Necanicum River and survey it this spring for patches of the plant, which tends to grow in clusters on or near riverbanks.

A training session will be held Saturday, May 20, from 1 to 5 p.m. in Seaside (exact location to be revealed to those who register). This half-day training will focus on identification of Policeman’s Helmet, understanding of the weed’s impact on the Necanicum watershed, proper use of a smartphone mapping application, and a field component to practice mapping and looking at the plant along the river. At the training, participants will choose a stretch of the Necanicum that they will survey independently (or with a partner) over the next few weeks.

Kayakers must be available to survey the river by June 15, or before river levels drop too low to paddle. Participants must have their own boat and other necessary paddling gear as well as a smartphone. All participants will receive a waterproof cell phone case to thank them (and to keep their phone safe during the survey).  There will be an outdoor component to this training, please bring rubber boots or hiking boots and rain gear. Snacks, water, and fun will be provided!

For more information, contact Stewardship Director Melissa Reich at melissar@NCLCtrust.org or (503) 738-9126.  To register, go here.