Press release submitted by the Nashua River Watershed Association
First and foremost, the Nashua River Watershed Association wants to acknowledge that we are living in challenging times, and we hope you and your families are all well.
Second, we want to assure you that we are still here for you, and we are continuing to pursue our mission to protect the natural resources here in our watershed.
Third, all education programs planned for April are being postponed. We are considering options to make new educational opportunities available to you online. In the meantime, one positive thing we can do is enjoy the nature that surrounds us. We know that being in nature is good for us – physically and mentally. While observing guidelines on social distancing, time outdoors can be a welcome respite and bring an improved sense of well-being. And remember, there is much to be enjoyed and discovered in your own backyard.
Fourth, here is a brief summary of what NRWA has been working on.
- Land Programs: We are continuing to work with land trusts in a number of communities to put together a federal Forest Legacy application which would provide funding to conserve priority forestlands, for instance those that protect high value water resources. We continue to work with the Nashua, Squannacook, and Nissitissit River Wild and Scenic Stewardship Council on a number of projects, or potential projects, including canoe & kayak access assessments and shoreline surveys.
- Water Programs: The NRWA’s Water Programs Department is looking forward to its 28th season of water monitoring. April monitoring with the volunteers was cancelled due to circumstances arising from the pandemic. A Volunteer Training via videoconference is being considered as part of a suite of actions being taken so the program can start up in May. Staff is also working with the Town of Pepperell to seek grant funding for a third season of invasive water chestnut management in the Pepperell Pond impoundment of the Nashua River.
- Education Programs: Education staff is working closely with the numerous schools and teachers with whom they have ongoing program plans, i.e. Scientist-in-Residence and River Classroom®. Staff has offered lesson plans and materials to teachers for their use in their remote teaching classrooms, lessons NRWA staff would have presented in person. Staff is also working on plans to create virtual lessons via video to be shared. Schools have not made decisions on whether May and June River Classroom programs will proceed, but NRWA and our partner Nashoba Paddler are prepared to go!
- Development/Communication: NRWA’s Auction 2020 Gala event was postponed; this biennial event is a major fundraiser for the NRWA. Our Spring Online Auction was held as planned, and we are delighted to report that we exceeded our budgeted goal thanks to so many engaged supporters. Our spring Membership Appeal is in the mail. We are focusing on ways to reach out to our supporters to keep you up-to-date on our work.
Last, but absolutely not least! We want you to know that your support means everything to us. Thank you and be well!