With the 2024 field season now wrapped up as of August, the Lake Leelanau Lake Association (LLLA) reports that not only was it very successful in the fight against invasive Eurasian watermilfoil (EWM), but they have also taken away a lot of useful non-chemical methods to continue protecting the area in the future.
LLLA Director of Administration and Programs and Dive Team Leader, Annalise Povolo, said the project, which partners with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians (GTB) to fight EWM, has seen much progress over the last five years since it started. EWM is described as “one of the most invasive and noxious aquatic invasive species in North America due to its ability to grow up to the surface of the lake in thick, dense mats which inhibit recreational and ecosystem functions on the lake.” After years of testing different control methods, both LLLA and GTB now rely on “benthic barriers” to kill EMW. According to LLLA, the barriers are made of biodegradable burlap blankets which are laid on top of the plant to prevent its ability to grow.
“It (the burlap) prevents it (EWM) from getting sunlight, and then it can’t photosynthesize and it dies…” Povolo explained. “We have been putting it in the lake every year because we’re covering different infestations. It’s biodegradable, so it’s okay to keep it in the lake.”
