Ottauquechee Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area

The Ottauquechee Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (OCISMA) began to take shape in 2009 when several local organizations and concerned citizens joined forces to address the issue ofinvasive species. This watershed-wide volunteer organization has dedicated its efforts within the Ottauquechee River Watershed, encompassing the towns of Killington, Bridgewater, Plymouth, Woodstock, and Pomfret.

In addition to educational events, the OCISMA has lead and participated in several work days to remove invasive plants within the community. UsingiMapInvasives, a free online mapping tool, members are beginning to track the location and spread of these unwanted plants. Common examples of these species found within the Ottauquechee watershed include Norway Maple (Acer platanoides), Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis), Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica), and Eurasian Water Milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum).