Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at an 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Why Do We Care If Non-native Plants Enter Our Water Bodies?

Economic ImpactsCandlewood Lake with invasive plants.

The costs to control invasive species are extremely high. Invasive species have the ability to harm native sport fish population. Invasive plants form dense mats that make boating, fishing, and swimming difficult. Zebra mussels encrust piers, lift stations, and boats, sometimes leading to costly repairs. There are preliminary indications that some invasive species can have a negative impact on property values.

Ecological Impacts

Invasive species have the ability to change habitats and threaten the plants and animals that live in them. For example, zebra mussels encrust the shells of our native mussels, making it difficult for them to survive. These invasive mussels also consume the tiny plants and animals that young fish rely on for food. Plants like Eurasian water-milfoil form dense mats that shade out native plant species.

Recreational ImpactsMilfoil which is an invasive plant.

As mentioned previously, invasive plants form dense mats that make boating, fishing, and swimming difficult. Zebra mussel shells that are washed up on beaches can cut the feet of unsuspecting swimmers.

Aquatic Invasive Species

 

Content last updated on January 7, 2020.