Learn More

Prevention / Eradication Efforts on LTL

The Most Immediate Threat

A highly aggressive aquatic weed known as Eurasion Watermilfoil (EWM) is wreaking havoc in freshwater lakes throughout Michigan. It poses an imminent threat to Little Traverse Lake. We must take immediate action to defend our lake from this and other invasive species.

LTLA EWM Prevention Fundraising Campaign.

Donate Now

Lake Level $350 / Leadership Level $750 / Legacy Level $1,000+

Invasive Species

Eurasian Water Milfoil Prevention Strategy

Boat Cleaning Station
Regular Aquatic Plant Survey

EWM has not been found yet in LTL, but neighboring lake associations have been fighting costly infestations in recent years. Our current prevention strategy includes installing a self-serve boat cleaning station and regular surveys by Freshwater Solutions, which will identify all of the lake’s aquatic vegetation and its location. They will notify us quickly if they find any invasive plants so that rapid eradication efforts can begin immediately.

Terrestrial Plants

"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

Native Plants for MI Inland Lake Properties

Invasive Wetland/Emergent Plants

The yearly plant survey will also identify invasive wetland plants including new stands of Purple Loosestrife and invasive Yellow Iris. A release of Galerucella Beetles at a specific Loosestrife stand for 3 years has made a significant impact and will be repeated in 2021. Volunteers continue to dig out this invader species as well as cutting, bagging and disposing of flower stalks in order to prevent the release seeds in select locations.

You Can Help

Stay informed

LTLA 2020 Aquatic Plant & Algal Survey Final Report

EWM - Purple Loosestrife - Phragmites

Volunteer by contacting LTLA (ltlpoa88@gmail.com)
Donate

Eliminating or controlling aquatic and terrestrial plant and animal invasive species is vital to the health of Little Traverse Lake ecosystems and for continued recreational enjoyment. Learn how to prevent and eradicate invasive species threats.

Aquatic Animals and Plants

"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."