Property owners and anglers can help spot aquatic invaders

DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife reminds lakefront property owners and anglers to look out for invasive, non-native aquatic plants

Identifying and reporting these plants to local lake associations, conservation organizations and appropriate state officials will help stop further spread and damage to lakes. These plants spread more rapidly than native plants, disrupt lake ecology, create nuisance conditions and interfere with recreational use of lakes.

"If detected early, efforts to stop the spread of invasive plants can be less costly and more effective," Indiana Lakes Management Society (ILMS) president Ed Spanopoulos said. "We can serve as a source of people who locate new invaders and help participate in early responses to control them."

The recent appearance of hydrilla in Lake Manitou in Rochester cost the state more than $700,000 in control efforts and forced closings of public boat ramps to prevent the spread to other waters. The cost to eradicate the plant in the lake will be almost $1.5 million.

ILMS plans to research other organizations to determine the role members can play to assist with early detection and prevention programs.

To make a report contact DNR Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator Doug Keller at (317) 234-3883.