SWWD is continuing AIS management in fall 2024 and will be treating several bodies throughout the district for aquatic invasive species (AIS), including: Colby Lake, La Lake, Ravine Lake, and Wilmes Lake (south basin). Serval lakes have extensive infestations of Eurasian Watermilfoil (EWM) and curlyleaf pondweed (CLP). Treatments will be conducted using herbicides to address the infestation.
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. Eurasian Watermilfoil can be treated with ProcellaCOR, Diquat, and Fluridone.
Curlyleaf pondweed is another type of submersed invasive aquatic plant that has been found. CLP can cause nuisance conditions on District lakes, and make lake recreation such as fishing and canoeing or kayaking difficult. Additionally, CLP in particular disrupts normal lake cycles by growing over winter and spring when there is little competition from native species and then senescing, or dying off, in early summer. When CLP dies off in early summer, it releases nutrients into the water that can then drive ongoing algae blooms through the peak of summer heat. Curlyleaf pondweed can be treated with ProcellaCOR, Diquat, and Fluridone.
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.
Check out this video on in-lake treatments on Colby Lake to learn more
For more information contact SWWD Water Resources Program Coordinator Abby Tekiela at 651.714.3712 or Abigail.Tekiela@woodburymn.gov