The LTL Water Quality Committee has contracted with Freshwater Solutions to complete a survey which will identify all of the lake’s aquatic vegetation and its location. They will notify us quickly if they find any invasive plants and offer eradication options.
The LTL Invasive Species Committee has worked to pinpoint the locations of Purple Loosestrife at LTL. A release of Galerucella Beetles at a specific stand for 3 years is already making a significant impact and will be repeated in 2021. Volunteers continue to dig out this invader species as well as cutting off the flower stalks, bagging and disposing of them in order to prevent the release seeds in select locations
How You Can Help
Eliminating or controlling aquatic and land invasive species is vital to the health of Little Traverse Lake ecosystems and for continued recreational enjoyment. Learn how to eradicate invasive species threats and use native plant landscaping.
"Most plants and animals found in inland lakes are natural parts of a diverse and healthy ecosystem. Unfortunately, there are a few species that can become problematic when introduced to a lake, threatening lake health...and having often unpredictable environmental impacts. Because of the threat that these invasive species pose... it is important that we know how to identify them, work to prevent their introduction into lakes where they are not currently found, and understand the available management options if they are found in a lake"
"Many plants invasive in our region were once imported for use in ornamental landscapes, and some remain popular in the nursery trade even today. Whereas in the past, gardeners were unaware of the impact of invasive species, today we have the opportunity to make informed decisions about what we plant."
Eradicating Invasive Species and Landscaping Alternatives