SWWD is continuing AIS management in fall 2024 and will be treating the south basin of Wilmes Lake for aquatic invasive species (AIS). The south basin of Wilmes Lake has extensive AIS infestations of Eurasian Watermilfoil (EWM). Hand-pulling removal was pursued last season as a first method of reduction, however, area surveys have shown that this method did not meaningfully reduce the spread of EWM. Treatment will be conducted using herbicide, ProcellaCOR.
Eurasian Watermilfoil is a submersed invasive aquatic plant that has been inadvertently introduced to Minnesota waterbodies. EWM can limit activities on recreational water bodies by forming mats on the water surface. It can also alter aquatic ecosystems by displacing native plants, reducing the biodiversity that a healthy aquatic environment relies upon.
ProcellaCOR is not a risk to human or wildlife health. The US EPA has registered ProcellaCOR at their lowest category of risk (‘reduced risk”) and identified no risks of concern to humans, aquatic animals, or other aquatic plants’ health. ProcellaCOR is incredibly selective in treating Eurasian Watermilfoil.
All in-lake plant management is permitted by the MN Department of Natural Resources and performed by licensed applicators. Herbicides for treating lake AIS infestations have been around for a long time and have been studied extensively. Research has shown that they do not harm fish, mammals, or aquatic insects and are safe for humans and pets. Signage will be placed at any existing lake access points during treatment notifying lake users of those recommended contact restrictions.
For more information contact SWWD Water Resources Program Coordinator Abby Tekiela at 651.714.3712 or Abigail.Tekiela@woodburymn.gov