Mechanical harvester near the Condon Shell in MedfordHave you seen bright orange machines navigating the Mystic? They are mechanical harvesters working to remove the invasive water chestnut from the Mystic River. This project is part of a three year effort by Groundwork Somerville, Friends of the Mystic River, & Riverside Yacht Club, Winter Hill Yacht Club, Mystic Wellington Yacht Club. Mechanical harvesting is just one component in the effort that includes extensive hand harvesting of the water chestnut by community members, Green Teams and Americorps. Local conservation group, Friends of the Mystic, has been working on the water chestnut problem for a number of years and is currently an active partner with MyRWA in supporting Groundwork Somerville efforts. The mechanical harvesting is expected to last 6 to 9 days.
