Upper Connecticut Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area

Formed in 2010, the Upper Connecticut River Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (Upper CT CISMA) is a partnership of volunteers, non-profit organizations, and state and federal agencies that have joined together to protect the head waters of the Connecticut River from ecologically-and economically harmful invasive species. The Upper CT CISMA encompasses approximately 900,000 acres and nine major tributaries of the Connecticut River across northern Vermont, northern New Hampshire, and southeastern Quebec. This region encompasses a mosaic of federal (Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge, part of the White Mountains National Forest), state, and other public and private lands.

This region is rural and sparsely populated with an economy that is highly dependent on the “working landscape” through agriculture, forestry, maple syrup production, recreation, and tourism. Unlike other parts of the Connecticut River watershed, the upper watershed has relatively few invasive species, and the limited geographic spread of these few species offers the real possibility of successful control and eradication.

To date, the Upper CT CISMA has identified important species to include in early detection and eradication efforts, conducted education and outreach to local communities and visitors, mapped critical areas for treatment, and begun the critical work of eradicating invasive species from this region. Ultimately, these targeted efforts increase the likelihood of success and will reduce the need for more drastic and expensive actions in the future. With no full-time staff, the Upper CT CISMA relies on in-kind support, government and foundation grant money, and volunteers to effect change within the watershed.

The Upper Connecticut River Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas (UC CISMA) is a partnership between federal, state, and local government agencies, tribes, individuals, and various interested groups that manage invasive species in a defined area.

Invasive species are not only found along the CT River Valley, but they are also found in the Androscoggin River Valley! If you suspect that you have invasives on your property and you would like them to be identified by our team, and possibly be removed please contact:

Ethan Vollersten, UC CISMA Coordinator at: ethan.uc.cisma@gmail.com