The Upper Saranac Foundation built on previous efforts to control the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) in the Upper Saranac watershed. The project utilized diver hand harvesting to reduce invasive plant infestations within the Fish Creek Public Campground, minimizing the risk of downstream spread. Extensive public outreach reinforced AIS prevention strategies for campground users and the broader public.

Over the last several years, New York’s Washington County has been converting its winter road maintenance operations to brine in an effort to reduce pollution from road salt. Efforts have included building a regional brine hub in the Village of Whitehall.

Both located in Washington County, the Towns of Whitehall and Hampton have been interested in converting their current rock salt and sand application processes to brine applications but required funding for the equipment to do so. Initial interest arose from a prior educational event hosted by the County with funding support from the LCBP. This follow-up project has increased the County’s productivity and abilities for both application and delivery, and will support the two towns as they convert their winter road maintenance operations.

Lake Champlain has seen significant changes to its coldwater fish community, including increased natural reproduction of lake trout and the invasion of alewife.

A research team at the University of Vermont developed a new coldwater forage fish bottom trawling survey to help track long-term changes in prey fish populations. A standardized operating procedure, data analysis scripts, and database have been established to enable resource managers and researchers to identify and analyze trends in the forage base and make informed stocking decisions in the future.

The Missisquoi River Basin has been heavily impacted by invasive Japanese knotweed, an invasive species that was introduced from eastern Asia to the United States in the 19th century.

Knotweed spreads prolifically, forming dense patches that shade out native plants. It often grows along streambanks, and with its shallow root system creates stretches vulnerable to erosion.

Over the course of a multi-year research project, the Missisquoi River Basin Association (MRBA) has become a “go-to” resource for management in the community as well as beyond the Missisquoi River region.

In their third year of treatment trials, MRBA maintained trial plots using various methods to reduce the presence of knotweed and encourage native plant growth. The group estimates that 3+ years of ongoing management will allow native vegetation to establish and outcompete the knotweed, improving habitat and soil stability in the managed areas.

Over the past two decades, the Intervale Conservation Nursery has grown and planted native trees and shrubs to help restore critical riparian and wetland areas. Long-term monitoring in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has shown that without proper maintenance, many newly planted trees and shrubs struggle to survive, underscoring the importance of ongoing stewardship.

With recent funding, the Intervale Center has undertaken stewardship work on an additional 30 acres of forested buffer zone. This is a continuation of efforts to enhance over 175 acres of riparian forest, supported by past funding from the LCBP.

This project aligns with a long-term strategy to improve riparian habitat by ensuring that restoration efforts are not only initiated but sustained. By securing funding for stewardship, the Intervale Center can continue holistic management of conservation projects, enhancing water quality, stabilizing riverbanks, and promoting biodiversity. Through these efforts, the Center is advancing key regional conservation goals, ensuring that restoration investments lead to lasting ecological benefits.