Invasive
Weeds in Long Lake
Curly-leaf Pondweed
Eurasian Water-milfoil
In 2002 Curly-leaf Pondweed and Eurasian
Water-milfoil were identified by the
Wisconsin DNR in our lakes. These weeds start growing very early in
the spring, spread very fast, and float on the surface creating
navigation problems and choking out the desirable native weeds,
which are required for your fish habitat.
In 2007 a group of people concerned about the rapid
progression of these two weeds applied for and received a permit
from the DNR to apply an aquatic herbicide for these exotic weed
species. We hired a licensed sprayer who
treated almost one mile of frontage under DNR supervision with
favorable results and no adverse effects.
Starting in 2008 The DNR will not issue treatment
permits to Individuals. The DNR will require the Association to look
at the whole water-body with an annual survey from the inlet in
Tittle Lake to the dam in Dundee, dealing
with the biggest threats first, as funding allows. The DNR's first
priority is Eurasian Water-milfoil, which spreads by fragmentation
(meaning that when this weed is cut or broken the pieces will start
a new colony wherever they settle). The good news is that there is
not much out there yet! The DNR's second priority is Curly-leaf
Pondweed which may already cover as much as 40 acres. This weed
spreads by seeds, which can lay dormant for several years. To insure
that the dormant seeds that mature are also treated,
the
DNR will require a three-year commitment
for a treatment program.
The Association Plan
The Long Lake Preservation Association was formed to
deal with Eurasian Water-milfoil and Curly-leaf Pondweed. By
starting an association with dues not more than $50 we can be
eligible for two grants starting in 2008, both of which are 50% cost
sharing grants. The first is the Early Detection Rapid Response
grant for Eurasian Water-milfoil which will provide up to $10,000
(2008,09) and the second grant is the Existing Infestation for
Curly-leaf Pondweed which will provide up
to $75,000 (2008,09, 10). Other grants are currently available for
beyond 2010. For grant eligibility, the
association is required to provide some volunteer time and boat
usage. Volunteer hours count as $8 per hour toward the grant, with
pontoon use slightly more. Both will help us raise our share of the
50%. As you can see volunteer time is necessary for success.
The Association Goal
Our goal for the Long Lake Preservation Association
is to apply 100% of dues and donations each year toward getting and
keeping control over these two exotic weed species.
Presentation
The association has prepared a slide
presentation explaining the objectives and plans. This is a
PowerPoint presentation. To see each slide, click on a
"Thumbnail" below.
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