Lake Eden Association
lakeedenvt.org
Aquatic Invasive Species
What are aquatic invasive species?
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are non-native aquatic plants, animals, and other organisms that are introduced from other ecosystems, either locally or abroad. Typically, humans transport them, intentionally or unintentionally. These species can spread successfully and prolifically harming the entire ecosystem and in turn harm the economy and recreational activities that depend on the affected body of water.
Invasive species degrade, change and displace native habitats, compete with native wildlife, and are major threats to biodiversity. Ecosystems with low biodiversity are more vulnerable to disease and other environmental stresses. At worst, invasive species can lead to the extinction of native fauna and flora.
Below are examples of some of the more common IS that are in VT:
How do the get here?
There are various pathways of invasion. Sometimes species are deliberately introduced, but more often they are unintentionally introduced. They can become inadvertent hitchhikers on or in boats, ballast water, packing materials, soil or gear. Aquatic plants can become tangled on boat engines, propellers, trailers, and other equipment and can be taken to new bodies of water if not cleaned properly. Aquatic invasive plants & organisms can be transported in bait buckets, live wells and bilge water. They can also make their way into lakes from via bait, pets, water gardens and aquariums either by escaping or being released.
Lake Champlain is now home to some 50 aquatic invasive species, both plants and organisms including major infestations of Rusty Crayfish, Spiny Water Flea, Zebra Mussels, Knotweed, Water Chestnut, Eurasian and Variable-leafed Watermilfoil
A major concern for inland lakes, such as Lake Eden, is that boats moving between Lake Champlain and other lakes could spread these invasive species. Also of note is that Lake Eden is connected to Lake Champlain through the Gihon River, which flows into the Lamoille River, which in turn empties into Lake Champlain. We need to be vigilant in preventing further infestations by being good stewards of the lake and through continued support of our Greeter, VIP, and Educational outreach programs. The most notorious of invasive plants in our area is Eurasian Watermilfoil. Lake Eden currently has 2 invasive species; Phragmites Australis (common names Phragmites or Common Reed) and Eurasian Watermilfoil (EWM). Our greatest concern by far is with the infestation of EWM which was first identified In July 2022.
Can invasive Species be prevented?
The short answer is yes but with a lot of vigilance! Prevention is the goal as once an invasive species (IS) establishes in a body of water, it can be very difficult to eradicate or to control depending on the specific species. Prevention is relatively low cost compared to costs involved with control and eradication efforts.
The best way to avoid spreading aquatic invasive species is to avoid picking up hitchhiking eggs, seeds, and other invasive plant or animal material in the first place. Educating the broader community on prevention measures and establishing programs such as a Greet program at lake access points is critical.
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Inspect boats, trailers, fishing gear, and ALL recreational equipment before & after using in ANY water body. Remove any plant fragments and dispose of away from the lake.
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CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY- Clean (ideally with hot and high powered water) and drain ALL water equipment/clothing after use. Dry thoroughly with a towel and let dry in the sun for 5 days prior to using in another body of water. This includes draining and drying of live wells and bilges.
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Do not dump bait buckets or fish in or around the lake unless they came from that lake. Dispose in trash.
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Do not release any plants or animals into the lake.
How are aquatic Invasive Species controlled?
Early detection and rapid response of invasive species (IS) is much more effective than trying to control a widespread infestation. Effective management of IS requires vigilance and a collaborative efforts by the lake community and local government.
There are three broad categories of control methods: mechanical, chemical, and biological. Mechanical control means physically removing the invasive plants/organisms from the environment through cutting, pulling, or harvesting. Biological methods include procedures such as introducing other species that feed on the unwanted IS. Targeted chemicals can be used to kill off the unwanted IS. The particular methods are specific to the targeted IS and nothing is a magic bullet. Typically, a multi-method approach is used to maximize favorable results.
CLICK HERE to see what steps the Lake Eden Association has taken to mitigate Eurasian Watermilfoil.
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