One of the biggest but most important challenges in controlling aquatic invasive species (AIS) is getting to them before they get out of hand. Removing AIS can be difficult when they lurk in the depths of the lake, unseen by most before it is (often) too late. Had we discovered Eurasian watermilfoil before several acres spread through Lake Leelanau, we could have saved hundreds of thousands of dollars. That is why we need YOU to help us in our mission to detect AIS early so that we can respond rapidly. Please read more to learn how you can assist with Lake Leelanau AIS prevention and help protect and preserve Lake Leelanau.
Early Detection/Rapid Response
Early Detection/Rapid Response is the name of the game. The earlier we detect AIS, the earlier we can respond and take care of these nasty invaders before they become a problem. We do our best with the newest technology to monitor our lake, but at any point, a boat could bring in invasive species that could take hold in Lake Leelanau.
One of our biggest priorities is ensuring that Eurasian watermilfoil (EWM)—which is being controlled in South Lake Leelanau—does not spread into North Lake Leelanau. That is why we need as many eyes on the lake as possible to help us detect EWM in North Lake Leelanau. If you see a plant fragment floating at the surface or you pull plants up with your anchor or fishing gear, use the tools provided below to try to identify any suspicious plants and report them to us!
How to Identify EWM
The native milfoils (we are fortunate to have three native species in our lake) are an integral part of our ecosystem and should be differentiated from the Eurasian watermilfoil.
All milfoil species are submerged aquatic plants with leaves that are finely divided into leaflets. The sure way to tell the difference is the number of leaflets (the thin leaves that come off the main stem). Native watermilfoil usually has 14 or fewer leaflets per leaf, whereas EWM typically has 14-24 leaflets per leaf. But the easiest way to tell is how it behaves when it is out of the water. EWM tends to hang limp when out of the water, whereas the natives are usually more rigid and keep their fluffy shape.
EWM often has a reddish stem, but this alone cannot be used to distinguish it from its close, native relatives. If you see anything like this, especially in North Lake Leelanau, click the button below to report it!
Identifying Another AIS of Concern: Curly-Leaf Pondweed
Another AIS of concern in Lake Leelanau is Curly-Leaf Pondweed (Potamogeton crispus). It has been found in small quantities in the Narrows, the Cedar River, and in some water bodies neighboring Lake Leelanau. It has thin, dark green leaves with a prominent mid-vein down the middle of each leaf. The leaves have wavy “lasagna noodle-like” edges, and if you hold them up to the light you can easily see that they are serrated (toothed), one of its simplest identifying features.
Our AIS team has rapidly responded to remove this new invasive in Lake Leelanau before it becomes a big problem, but it can be difficult to spot from a boat or drone until it gets larger. If you see anything that looks suspicious, please report it below!
These are just two examples of AIS that we already have in Lake Leelanau, but many others are knocking on our door. Please click on the link below to inform yourself of other AIS of concern so you can take action if you spot one! Want something to keep on your boat in case you spot something? Stop by one of our boat cleaning stations and pick up a pamphlet from our staff Friday through Saturday!
Reporting Form: Lake Leelanau AIS Prevention
Here comes the big question: What to do if you spot a plant you suspect is an aquatic invasive species? Please report it to us! LLLA has developed an easy-to-use digital form to submit findings if you suspect you have identified an AIS. If it looks like an AIS of concern, one of our biologists will contact you to investigate it further.
Should you have any questions regarding Lake Leelanau AIS prevention, please get in touch with us at [email protected].