IPP Travel Team

The goal of the Invasive Plant Patrol program has always been, and continues to be, the training of volunteers to survey their lakes for aquatic invasive plants. Several years into the program, Lake Stewards of Maine realized that while many lakes had active and engaged people able to dedicate the time to monitor the lake they lived on or near, other lakes had fewer residents or were so large that they were difficult to survey effectively. 

The origins of the Travel Team spring from the very first Jump-Start mission to Moosehead Lake. Over six years, volunteers accompanied LSM staff to complete a full survey of one of the largest and most biologically diverse lakes in Maine. During those years they gained extensive experience in surveying techniques and aquatic botany, and were able to bring those skills back to the lake communities that they live in.

Time after time they have returned to assist with new Jump-Start missions and Rapid Response surveys. They have helped to train and mentor other volunteers that are interested in enhancing their skills, travelled to some of the most beautiful areas of Maine, and are doing what they can to protect our inland waters for future generations.

If you are interested in protecting your lake from aquatic invaders but aren’t sure how to start, want to get more hands-on experience with plant identification, or desire to explore Maine while helping out a good cause please consider signing up for the IPP Travel Team. We have many opportunities for volunteers at all skill levels.