PLM survey at Clark Lake Tuesday revealed a few areas of hybrid Eurasian water milfoil (HEWM), totaling about two acres.  That’s good news as there could have been more.  Clark Lake has been engaged in a battle to defend itself from this invasive species.  Left alone, these weeds can take over.  Lakes that didn’t act paid the price in diminished recreational uses, harm to natural habitat, and reduction in property values. 

PLM expects to treat the areas next Wednesday, June 22, weather permitting.  Notices will be posted. 

After treatment, the defeated weeds collapse and typically sink to the bottom.  Invasive or native weeds growing close to the surface can be decapitated by props and wash ashore.   The products used for treatment affect only invasive weeds. 

Another upbeat conclusion to the survey was the lack of Starry stonewort.  None was detected where previously found—Eagle Point and near the County Park.  A different treatment product was used last year, suggesting that the change increased effectiveness.  Starry stonewort is actually an algae that looks much like a native weed.  Like HEWM, it can also multiply quickly.  Starry has become a big problem at some lakes.    

To keep Clark Lake in excellent condition, vigilance is the answer.  That’s the conclusion of the Invasive Species Committee, made up of fellow Clark Lake residents who live on the lake.  Considering the dour alternative, this program is a win.  

The special assessment district (SAD) allows for treatment wherever invasive weeds are found in Clark Lake, and provides the financial support.  The SAD was recently reestablished for another 7 year period.  The cost to a lakefront property owner is $59 annually, less than the previous $64 per year cost.       

To read about the recent renewal of the SAD, please click here. 

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