Algae and Cyanobacteria Control Project

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
What: Algae and Cyanobacteria Control Project
When: Saturday, April 23, 2022
Where: Nashawannuck Pond, Easthampton, MA
Why: Over the past number of years, lakes and ponds throughout the United States and the world have been experiencing increased occurrences of algae blooms. These blooms are a result of warmer climate temperatures and particularly affect shallower water bodies. Not all, but some of these blooms, may contain Cyanobacteria which can be very harmful.  Because the Nashawannuck Pond has experienced these blooms in the recent past, we are trying to see if using Barley Straw will help.

It has been found that Barley Straw, as it decomposes in certain waterbodies, will release a non harmful agent that will prevent these blooms from occurring. Thus, we are locating mesh bags of Barley Straw at specific locations to help prevent these blooms from happening.

We need 6 volunteers - to prepare Barley Straw bags. Meet at Valley Malt, 4 North Bridge Street in Holyoke (approx. 8 miles from Easthampton) April 23rd from 9am-noon. Volunteers will stuff two sections of Barley Straw from a bale into each of the 100 onion bags together with 2-3 floats.

We need 2 volunteers - to be in a boat on the Nashawannuck Pond to deploy the Barley Straw bags. There will be 2 boats with a pilot and a volunteer. The task is at designated areas with water depth approx. 2' - 3' deep, pounding in a stake approximately 2' deep, tying the Barley Straw bags to it and tying on an identifying ribbon. May need waders. Meet at the boat ramp on Water Street on Saturday, April 23rd at  12:30pm. 

Please email [email protected], if you wish to volunteer or have questions and concerns.