Arresting the spread of Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) in the Keweenaw Waterway

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

10-15-2014

Abstract

Eurasian watermilfoil (EWM) is one of the most important aquatic invasive plants in North America, with prolific populations in inland lakes of Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It has recently become established in nearshore waterways of the northern Great Lakes where colder water temperatures and episodic intense circulation patterns present a unique management challenge. The goal of our study is to conduct a multi-faceted analysis and extension program aimed at identifying the best management practices for arresting the growth and spread of EWM in the Upper Great Lakes, and for identifying the next likely locations for invasion based on hydrodynamic and ecological conditions. We are conducting a multi-year treatment and monitoring program on Portage Lake in the Keweenaw Waterway, Michigan. Although, there is abundant literature on the efficacy of herbicide treatments to control EWM, our study will provide insight on the ecological implications of removing this plant from the lake as well as more cost- and time- effective treatment options for local communities experiencing EWM invasion. Finally, our project will include an outreach program to reach other communities that are in danger of future invasion, via construction of a web-based information clearinghouse and a series of meetings and webinars.

Publisher's Statement

Publisher’s version of record: http://limnology.wisc.edu/northwoods_site/abstracts.html

Publication Title

Science of the Northwoods Conference

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