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An ounce of prevention
Aquatic invasive plants (IAPs) are highly effective at spreading from one freshwater body to another by “hitchhiking” on boats and trailers. They are considered invasive for good reasons—just a small piece of milfoil, for example, can spread throughout an entire lake or pond.
Once established, IAPs are nearly impossible to remove. They spread rapidly, forming dense mats near the water’s surface that block sunlight, crowd out native plants, and degrade habitats for fish, diving birds, and other wildlife.
Infestations of IAPs can diminish a water body’s recreational value for activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. They can also lead to a decline in shorefront property values.
Needless to say, this can be a very costly problem. Controlling invasives through mechanical or chemical methods can cost between $200 and $2,000 per lake-acre annually. In Vermont, it’s estimated that invasive aquatic plants can reduce property values by over $12,000 per property on infested lakes (source: Maine Department of Environmental Protection). Given these costs, prevention appears to be a wise investment.
Courtesy Boat Inspections
Volunteers and interns offer Courtesy Boat Inspections at least 15 hours a week from late June through early September at public boat launches, primarily on Pemaquid Pond but also on Biscay Pond. Boat owners are offered boat and trailer inspections upon entering and leaving the water to ensure that no invasive plants are introduced into these waters that could become established. The inspectors also encourage boat owners to conduct their own inspections when an inspector is not available – and always “Clean, drain, and dry!” your boat!
Invasive Plant Patrol
Coastal Rivers Invasive Plant Patrol volunteers also conduct regular surveys of common access areas on local freshwater ponds and lakes to search for potentially invasive aquatic plants. This is done in collaboration with Lake Stewards of Maine, which provides training and certification for volunteers.
What you can do to help prevent the spread of invasive aquatic plants
- Inspect and remove any aquatic plants or debris from boats, trailers, and equipment after use.
- Clean, drain, and dry boats, trailers, and fishing gear thoroughly before moving between water bodies.
- Avoid transferring plants or water from one lake or pond to another.
- Educate yourself and others about invasive species and the importance of prevention.
- Avoid planting invasive aquatic plants in garden ponds or aquariums to prevent accidental releases.
