Hello Riga Community,

Hope you all have been enjoying sweet summertime! The following is a quick word from the Environmental Stewardship Committee after our latest meeting.

You may have noticed an abundance of purple bladderwort currently along the banks of both lakes and floating freely in the water. This is not an invasive species, but one that is found commonly in the New England area. Due to a lack of ice over winter, the bladderwort has grown larger, and with the high amount of recent rainfall is now being pushed ashore. As this is a species regularly found in lakes and ponds all over the northeast, it is not one to worry over and there is no harm in raking it up if you feel inclined to do so.

Water color and clarity has also been impacted by the high inputs of rainwater bringing sediments from the watershed. Local environmentalists have documented a similar change in other lakes within the area.

However, we are continuing to work hard at conducting more lake tests to understand how the quality of water within the lakes is changing over time. Data over the years has shown a concerning decline in water quality within both lakes.

In an effort to understand more about why this is happening, we are seeking volunteers to help continue water sampling from September through November. Every little bit helps! Please let us know if you are willing to contribute by replying to [email protected] or [email protected].

Thanks everyone and happy August!
-Riga Environmental Stewardship Committee