24-05-2025
Blumenthal wants funding to fight hydrilla
HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D) wants more federal dollars to address the rapid infestation of an invasive aquatic species in the Connecticut River.
Blumenthal joined with environmental advocates in Hartford on Friday to announce his request for an additional $5.5 million to help combat the growth and removal of hydrilla.
Connecticut leaders hoping to draw tourists this summer
It threatens boating and fishing in the Connecticut River watershed.
It also spreads easily. Fragments of the plant can be transported by boats and boat trailers, so Connecticut leaders want you to remember, 'clean, drain, dry.'
'When you take your boat out of the water, make sure you inspect it and the trailer for any signs of vegetation and remove those,' Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection spokesman Justin Davis said. 'There's actually a state law that requires you to do so. Drain all the water out of the vessel. Get the boat dry as possible and then let it sit. We recommend you let it sit for up to five days.'
An aggressive eradication and management program to tackle this issue began in Connecticut last summer.
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