The Great Marsh Perennial Pepperweed Eradication Project is collaboration between Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Mass Audubon, and a growing list of other local partners. The project was initiated in 2006 to control and eradicate perennial pepperweed on and near the Refuge. In the first year, with the help of 70 volunteers, we pulled over 3,000 pounds of pepperweed and restored 65 sites around the Refuge. In 2007, more than 70 sites were treated with over 80 volunteers assisting.
We are actively recruiting volunteers for 2008. Recent partners to the project include Gulf of Maine Institute, Plum Island Kayak, Eight Towns and the Bay, The Trustees of Reservation, Parker River Cleanwater Association, Ipswich River Weatersehd Association, The Governor’s Academy, and Boy and Girl Scouts of America.
Perennial pepperweed is a relatively new invasive plant to the Northeast U.S., and is currently found only in Massachusetts, Connecticut and New Hampshire. By mobilizing local residents and groups, we’re aiming to eradicate this new invasive plant from our watershed. Join your neighbors in the fight against invasive plants. Volunteer Today!