Non-Profit News

 The St. Lawrence Eastern Lake Ontario Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (SLELO PRISM) is offering several volunteer opportunities as part of its Pledge-To-Protect initiative, a community-driven effort to safeguard natural ecosystems from invasive species.

Those interested in joining any of these opportunities can sign up on the SLELO PRISM website at the links provided below or contact the SLELO PRISM Education and Outreach Coordinator at 315-522-1258.

 Throughout July and August, SLELO PRISM is offering a series of terrestrial removal efforts, giving volunteers the chance to play a pivotal role in invasive species management. No prior experience is necessary, and all tools will be provided. The first event kicks off on July 12th. Interested volunteers are encouraged to register.

Community members are also invited to assist with a tree pan trap project on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. at the Rice Creek Field Station running through September 25. The project will help to determine if parasitoid wasps released at the site to control the invasive emerald ash borer have become established. Participants should be prepared to walk trails to collect specimens and view them under a microscope in a lab. No experience is required and guidance will be given. To volunteer to assist this effort please fill out this online form. 

 A water chestnut removal event on the Oswegatchie River, in the Village of Heuvelton, is scheduled for July 25. Participants should arrive by 9:45 a.m., as the event will start at 10 a.m. with an overview of water chestnut and a hand-pulling demonstration. The paddle will cover a 3-mile stretch between the Heuvelton Boat Launch and Eel Weir State Park, taking approximately 3-4 hours. Volunteers should bring their watercraft and life jackets, though a limited number of kayaks, canoe seats, and life jackets are available upon request. Those interested should register here. 

 Another water chestnut removal event is scheduled for August 2 at Guffin Bay from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Volunteers should bring their watercraft and life jackets. However, a limited number of kayaks, canoe seats, and life jackets are available upon request. Those interested should register here.  

 For those unable to attend these events, SLELO PRISM and its partners offer volunteer opportunities seasonally and, occasionally, year-round based on need. Sign up to receive notifications about upcoming events and opportunities.

 Participating in events hosted by SLELO PRISM or our partners qualifies volunteers to win prizes through a Volunteer Challenge.