NH Weed Control Tender
Offered in partnership with the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) and SSI, this course equips tenders with the knowledge and practical skills needed to support weed control divers and help with management operations for invasive aquatic plants in New Hampshire's lakes and waterways. Participants receive training in aquatic plant identification, documentation procedures, and safe, effective hand-harvesting and disposal techniques! Upon successful completion, students earn an SSI Invasive Species Management Certification approved by NHDES.
We are proud to be the only dive shop in New Hampshire officially designated by the State to certify divers and tenders for the removal of invasive milfoil species, helping protect and preserve our local aquatic ecosystems.
Course Availability: This course is typically offered in April and May. Lake associations and students are encouraged to contact us in February or March to inquire about scheduling and availability.
Availability: Contact us for booking information
Our Weed Control course is typically conducted over a single weekend or two consecutive days. The program combines independent study, classroom instruction, pool training, and real-world field experience to prepare tenders for aquatic invasive species management operations.
Important Scheduling Information: This course is primarily scheduled in April and May, though it can be scheduled later in the season depending on availability. While later scheduling is possible if our calendar allows, early-season training is ideal to align with optimal field conditions and more effective aquatic invasive plant management.
We strongly encourage lake associations and students to contact us in February or March to plan ahead and secure dates before training schedule is booked for the season.
STEP 1: DIGITAL LEARNING
Begin your training by reviewing the course materials provided by email, which you will complete at your own pace before attending your first class. Because this is a custom program developed in partnership with NHDES, the course content is not available through SSI's digital learning platform. The materials cover aquatic invasive species identification, management techniques, documentation procedures, environmental considerations, and best practices for safe and effective plant removal operations.
STEP 2: IN-PERSON TRAINING
In-person training includes classroom instruction, pool training, workshops, or practical exercises. During this phase, you will work directly with an instructor to review key concepts, develop new skills, and receive personalized coaching. This blended approach allows participants to:
- Learn directly from an experienced instructor
- Ask questions and receive immediate guidance
- Develop a genuine connection with your classmates and instructor
- Facilitates collaborative work and learning
- Practice essential skills in a controlled environment
- Build comfort and confidence with the equipment and underwater techniques
In-Person Training Requirements for Weed Control Tender: Day 1 is a full-day combined classroom and pool session with hands-on training. Tenders will not be required to get in the water during the pool session, but they should be present
STEP 3: OPEN WATER DIVES
The Weed Control Tender course includes open water training where you will apply your new knowledge and skills in real conditions. This training allows you to gain practical experience while demonstrating the requirements needed for certification.
Open Water Requirements for Weed Control Tender: One or two surface-support tendering assignments supporting and assisting a diver harvesting invasive species. These are completed during day 2 of the course
Important: Course schedules are subject to change based on season, weather conditions, instructor availability, and student needs. If additional in-water training is required, students may be asked to attend additional pool sessions or complete extra dives outside of scheduled class time, which may be subject to additional fees. Please note that dives being conducted from a charter will also include additional fees.
COURSE INCLUDES:
The course fee includes:
- Digital learning materials
- Course registration and certification fees
- Lifetime access to the SSI digital logbook, digital certification cards, dive tables, and related resources
- All scheduled training sessions and open water dives included with the course (see above)
Additional costs, if applicable, may include but are not limited to charter or boat fees, park or site entry fees, required personal equipment, equipment rentals, custom or expedited class fees, private class fees, and/or any additional dives or training time required beyond the standard course. Please call the shop if you have any questions about what additional costs may apply to your specific course or training schedule!
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REQUIRED PERSONAL EQUIPMENT (Must Purchase/Own)
None! Tenders are not required to bring or purchase any equipment for this course.
We recommend purchasing your equipment at Aquatic Specialties so we can personally fit the equipment to you and your body type. We have many different brands, styles, and sizes, and having equipment that fits well will enhance your performance in the water and make your dive experience more enjoyable! We offer our students a 10% discount* on any required equipment that is purchased while actively enrolled in a course! Every customer matters and your support of your local dive shop is the backbone to our success. Your patronage motivates us to keep improving, and allows us to be able to provide you with the services that we do today - together, we will dive into great things!
*Some restrictions apply on select products
Please Note: Students are responsible for picking up, transporting, and returning their own rental equipment. If transport is needed on our part, an additional surcharge may apply.
To ensure a safe, successful, and enjoyable dive experience, we ask that all students take the following responsibilities seriously throughout the course:
GEAR TRANSPORTATION
Students are responsible for transporting their own personal equipment and rental equipment to and from each class and dive session. If you are unable to do so, we may be able to assist with transport for an additional surcharge. Please let us know in advance so we can make arrangements.
PUNCTUALITY & ATTENDANCE
Arrive on time for all sessions. Diving requires structure and safety protocols - late arrivals may miss important briefings and could be asked to reschedule at an added cost. Full attendance is required for certification.
PRE-COURSE STUDY
If your course includes eLearning or textbook materials, they must be completed before your first in-person session. This ensures you understand the theory and can focus on skills during practical training.
MINDSET & FOCUS
Stay attentive and engaged throughout the course. Come ready to learn, ask questions, and support your fellow divers. Please be mindful that this is a classroom setting and we are all here to learn together. If you would like a private class, please contact the shop for more information. Teamwork is a key part of the experience!
MEDICAL & PHYSICAL READINESS
You must complete a medical questionnaire prior to starting the course. If any answers indicate a potential condition, a physician's clearance may be required. Being comfortable in the water and in reasonably good health is essential for completion of the prerequisites of this course. Swimming is involved.
COMMUNICATION
Keep in touch with us if anything changes - whether it is scheduling conflicts, health concerns, or gear issues. We are here to help, and clear communication ensures a smoother experience for everyone!
Need help preparing or have questions? Reach out to our team at any time - we are here to support you at every step of your diving journey!
Check out some of our other courses we have available!
Try Scuba (Ages 8+): Curious about scuba diving but not ready to commit to a full certification? Our Try Scuba class is the perfect way to dip your toes into the world of diving! This introductory session lets you experience the thrill of scuba diving in a safe, controlled environment, all under the guidance of a certified instructor.
Open Water Diver (Ages 10+): Get ready to explore the underwater world with our Open Water Diver certification! This entry-level course is the most popular scuba diving certification worldwide, perfect for beginners who want to learn how to dive safely and confidently. SSI's Open Water Diver certification is valid worldwide, allowing you to dive anywhere with a reputable dive shop.
Fish Identification (Ages 10+): Dive into the fascinating world of fish with our Fish Identification Course! Whether you're a budding marine biologist, an avid angler, a scuba diver, or simply a nature enthusiast, this course is designed to help you recognize and understand a wide variety of fish species.
Please note: Some courses have other prerequisites or required equipment that is necessary to complete the class. Please see the "prerequisites" and "required equipment" tabs for each individual class for more details.
