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
LTLA 2021 Aquatic Invasive Species Final Report
- 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."
Aquatic Invasive Species Impact and Prevention
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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 our newly installed 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."