Invasive Aquatic Plants & Species

The BMLA Water Watch Committee is ever mindful of the ongoing threat to our lakes from invasive plants and species. 

 

Since 2020 we have mounted a vigilant campaign against the rise of Variable Leaf Milfoil in Utowana Lake, This has included yearly hand-harvesting and constant monitoring of the three lakes in the Eckford chain against its spread.

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Yet, our lakes are facing considerable threats from numerous invasive aquatic plants and species that are are already spreading throughout the ADK region. The list below is representative of just some of the threats at our shores.

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Invasive Aquatic Plants:

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• Hydrilla

• Curly-leaf pondweed

• Eurasian watermilfoil

• European frog-bit

• Fanwort

• Starry stonewart

• Water Chestnut

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Invasive Aquatic Species:

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• Spiny waterflea

• Asian Clam

• Chinese Mystery snail

• Fishhook waterflea

• Quagga Mussel

• Round goby

• Rusty crayfish

• Zebra Mussel

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Residents and friends of Blue Mountain Lake must continue to prevent the spread of these numerous invasive aquatic plants and species that threaten the long-term health and water quality of all three lakes in the Eckford chain.  To do so, we must remain complete yearly surveys of our lakes in order to address every possible threat before us. 

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Of course, the best way to stop invasive plants and species from being a problem is to PREVENT them from entering our lakes. That requires all of us to do our part by ensuring that each and every boat launched on Blue Mountain Lake is clean, drained and dried so that they harbor no invasive aquatic hitchhikers - something that is now required by NYS law. You can do your part by talking to friends, visitors, neighbors about the importance of launching only CLEAN boats in Blue Mountain Lake.

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Prevention is the only sure way to avoid the tremendous cost of having to manage new threats to the long-term quality and enjoyment of Blue Mountain Lake. It is imperative that each of us do our part.

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If you would like more information, or are interested in supporting our efforts, please contact Michele Curry, Chair, Water Watch at: Water@BlueMountainLakeAssociation.org

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Thank you!