Wachusett Reservoir Focus Of Wednesday Lecture Series

WEST BOYLSTON, MA — The state Department of Conservation and Recreation this week will kick off the second half of a lecture series focusing on the Wachusett Reservoir. The monthly "watershed Wednesdays" series dives into different aspects of the second-largest body of water in the state, from wildlife to how human life affects the reservoir.

All events take place at the DCR Water Supply Protection Headquarters, John Augustus Hall, 180 Beaman St., West Boylston.

Here's the lineup through the end of 2024:

Climate resiliency, May 15, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Discover how changes in climate affect the way storms and hazards impact our environment and the places we love to visit. Join DCR's Director of Climate Resilience to learn how to build resilience and protect our natural, cultural, and recreational resources for generations to come. Meet at DCR Water Supply Protection Headquarters Building, 180 Beaman St., West Boylston. Entrance is at the flagpoles.

FisHISTORY, June 5, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The history of fishing at Wachusett Reservoir. DCR Watershed Rangers will present the history of fishing from the 1890s to today. They will draw from historical state records and showcase the species of fish found in the reservoir from surveys. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A.

Invasive plants, July 17, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Learn about identifying invasive plants and methods of control. Tour around the headquarters campus for identification practice with a DCR Natural Resource Analyst.

Stormwater basin tour, Aug. 21, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Tour structures and look into the purpose, history, operation, maintenance, and future potential to protect the water supply with civil engineers. Meet at headquarters at 180 Beaman Street, West Boylston for an overview, and caravan to retention basins near the Old Stone Church at 130 Boylston St.

Why are there divers in the reservoir, Sept. 18, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Learn how aquatic invasive species are managed in the reservoir and get your hands on plant samples to identify with the help of an aquatic biologist.

Loons on the reservoir, Oct. 16, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Loons are an indicator of excellent water quality. Learn all about how we protect them and meet natural resources environmental analyst.

Legends and lore, Nov. 20, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

‘Tis the season for gathering and storytelling. Bust myths and turn mystery into history with tales of the reservoir with Interpretive Services staff.

Brine workshop, Dec. 18, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Road salt can be harmful to the environment. Meet environmental quality staff and make your own salt brine to save money and help preserve the environment.