Champlain Aquatic invasive Monitoring Program (CHAMP) Sign-up Form
In the summer of 2023, LCC piloted the Champlain Aquatic invasive Monitoring Program (CHAMP), which recruits, trains, and supports volunteers to survey for aquatic invasive species (AIS) at sites throughout Lake Champlain. Volunteers paddle or walk along a shoreline site, rake in samples of aquatic life, and report their findings of key target invasive species to LCC three times during the summer and fall. With the data gathered by dedicated CHAMP volunteers, management professionals add to a database of information on where AIS are and aren’t established. Surveys also aid in early detection and rapid response to new invaders -- we train volunteers in identification of “watch list” invasive species that have been reported in the Hudson River and other nearby waterbodies, but not yet Lake Champlain.
CHAMP volunteers are required to:
- Have monthly access to a public or private lakeshore location. LCC's top priority is to have public access sites monitored.
- Attend an in-person training session in late spring/early summer 2024 to learn about aquatic species identification and CHAMP survey methods (this is a great learning opportunity for those who want to know more about what lives in the lake--native and invasive species alike!)
- Conduct and submit three surveys for key target AIS at their selected site over the course of the July-October season
- Agree to the protocols in the form below.
LCC supports CHAMP volunteers by:
- Hosting a training session with state and local AIS partners.
- Providing AIS identification resources, survey instructions and forms, sample submittal instructions and forms.
- Being available for ongoing technical support over the course of the field season.
LCC is growing CHAMP for the 2024 season. Sign-up below to help protect the ecological health of Lake Champlain!