This story comes to us from Marcia S. in Hastings, Mich. It illustrates how invasive species threaten not only the Great Lakes, but the inland lakes as well.
Thanks, Marcia.
I live on Carter Lake, in Hastings (Barry County). This small, 70 acre lake has a public access boat launch and is known for it’s fishing. Much of the land along the lake is a designated nature preserve with perhaps an additional 10 private homes. The lake frontage is wetlands and we had thought trying to live with the lily pads was difficult, but tolerable. This is nothing compared to the Eurasian Water-milfoil.
I have attached pictures of the lake from the summer of 2006 and 2007.
You can see that the milfoil has choked out the lily pads, but in addition, it’s presence has slowed the current to almost nothing, leaving the water virtually still. And this change is just within a year!! All boat traffic is just spreading this plant faster as the pieces of the plant cut by the propeller will take root. I fear that not addressing the elimination of this invasive plant will result in the eventual stagnation of this lake and favorite fishing spot.
Evidence of the spread of the Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) from the Great Lakes to inland lakes is further evidence that this issue effects more than our Great Lakes.
When we fail to address the introduction of an invasive species in a proactive manner, we will need to be more aggressive in treatment. Use of chemicals and possible introduction of other known predators to control an invasive species presents further threats to the environment.
As with any issue, being proactive is much more cost effective and preserving of the natural equilibrium. If we continue to debate these details, rather than deal with them promptly and proactively, we are just creating more issues of concern with protection of our planet.
We also encourage you to lend a hand in the effort to restore the Great Lakes. Get involved today. Together we can make a difference in protecting our lakes, our drinking water, our economy and our quality of life.
Related posts:
- Invasive Species Wreaking Havoc on Lake Erie Fishery
- Invasive Species
- Invasive Species Attack Hard Working American’s
- Obey Calls For Solution to Invasive Species
- Lawmakers, ODNR, OEC team up to pull the plug on invasive species –tainted ballast water in Lake Erie