Mike Thomas (the rower standing in this picture) prepares to receive plants from a paddler. Photo credit Phil LeMontagne.

The Jonah Center is looking for able-bodied individuals who have or are willing to obtain a CT Safe Boating Certificate to provide motorboat support for work parties removing invasive water chestnut plants (Trapa natans) in the Floating Meadows (Mattabesset River) next summer. Motorboat operators pilot our 14-foot flat-bottomed Jon boat equipped with a 6 hp motor. Taking the bagged plants from kayakers and canoeists greatly increases the productivity of the work party. Motorboat operators dispose of the plants on shore where they quickly die and dry out.

This role does not require prior experience operating a motorboat. We will train you to operate the boat. But state law requires operators to obtain a CT Safe Boating Certificate by taking an 8-hour course (usually through two 4-hour sessions, in-person or online) so that operators have basic safety information and know the rules of navigation. The Jonah Center will pay the $50 fee for the certificate for those who can commit to volunteering in the summer.

We also need rowers to help. Rowers reach the work site as passengers in the motorboat while the 12-foot Jon boat is towed to the work area. Rowers receive bags of plants from paddlers and assist in disposal on shore. Some prior rowing experience is helpful. Rowers need to be agile and sure-footed to transfer safely between the motorboat and the rowboat.

This is hard work, but our crews find it to be exhilarating and satisfying. Please contact John Hall is you are interested in volunteering for either of these roles next summer.