Current Milfoil Status
Updated: 08/05/2024
We want to provide an update on our ongoing efforts to combat the persistent milfoil problem in Swains Lake. While recent survey results offer some encouragement, the battle is far from over.
Progress Update on the Swains Lake Milfoil Project
We are pleased to share the latest updates on our ongoing efforts to manage and control the invasive milfoil in Swains Lake. Our commitment to maintaining the health and beauty of our lake is stronger than ever, and recent activities have brought us closer to our goals.
Recent Survey and Findings
On a recent survey, our team, led by Amy P. Smagula, Limnologist and Exotic Species Program Coordinator from the NH Department of Environmental Services, identified some areas of concern. The map, seen below, from the survey highlights these areas.
Proposed Actions
Based on the findings, Amy has recommended the following steps to address the milfoil presence:
1. 4.5 Acre Treatment Zone: We plan to implement a treatment zone near the public launch area, covering 4.5 acres. This targeted approach aims to manage the milfoil effectively in one of the most critical areas.
2. Diving Operations in the Outlet Cove: A short dive is scheduled in the outlet cove to remove a few identified plants. This precise and focused effort will help prevent the spread of milfoil from this spot.
Coordination and Next Steps
To ensure the effectiveness of these actions, we have coordinated with key partners:
- SOLitude Lake Management: Pete from SOLitude is currently working with us to determine a suitable treatment date.
- Aqualogic Inc.: Dominic and his team of divers are scheduled to complete one day of dive work on Monday, 08/05/2024. They will be conducting the removal operations in the outlet cove and may extend their dive to search a deeper zone to maximize the impact of their efforts.
Continued Commitment
Our dedication to controlling the milfoil in Swains Lake is unwavering. We appreciate the support and cooperation of our community as we undertake these necessary steps. By working together, we can preserve the ecological balance and natural beauty of our lake for future generations.
We will keep you informed about the progress of these actions and any additional measures we may need to take. Thank you for your ongoing support and vigilance in protecting Swains Lake.
For more information or to get involved, please contact us at: swainslakeassociation@gmail.com . Together, we can make a difference!
Stay tuned for further updates, and thank you for being an integral part of our efforts to keep Swains Lake healthy and vibrant.
What You Can Do
Avoid Areas of Milfoil
In the areas on the map where milfoil has been identified, do not go near them. Any disturbance to the milfoil gives it a chance to break off and float to seed and spread.
Remove FLOATING fragments ONLY
If you see milfoil fragments that are floating up to your shore, carefully remove them and throw them away. You must be careful when removing the fragment as they can easily snap and spread.
Keep a Lookout
If you notice anything suspicious that has not already been marked on the map, immediately notate your location, try and grab a picture, and contact us via email. Make sure to not disturb the area!
Are you a Skilled Diver?
We are looking for divers to take a course and get certified on removing exotic weeds. There are specific requirements and we have a group of lake members we are working to coordinate a class for. Please email us swainslakeassociation@gmail.com to inquire.
What SLA is Doing
Working with NH DES and NH Fish & Game on application process for permitting/etc for herbicidal treatment and diving removal.
Signage posted at boat launch informing the public of milfoil on our lake. These signs are legal and approved by NH Fish & Game (responsible of the launch).
We are reviewing with NH Fish & Game the status of the boat launch.
Area Reps are making rounds to communicate with all watershed homes of the current status.
What is Milfoil?
Milfoil is a submerged aquatic plant with fine, densely packed, feather-like leaves whorled around a main stem. It can grow up to 15 feet and may exhibit a three- to six-inch green spike-like flower above the waterline in late June or in July. A cross-section of the stem will reveal “pie-shaped” air chambers. This exotic species of milfoil has been in the state since the late 1960s, and can currently be found in over 75 waterbodies in New Hampshire. There are six native milfoil species present in the state that do not cause problems, as they are low growing and do not form monocultures, unlike variable milfoil. Eurasian milfoil is another non-native milfoil found in New Hampshire, but it is less of a threat than variable milfoil due to our water chemistry (Eurasian milfoil tends to be found in waters with higher pH ranges than those found in New Hampshire).
How Does Milfoil Spread?
Boat propellers chop milfoil plants into small fragments. These fragments float on the surface and are at the mercy of the wind and lake currents. In a short time, roots form on these fragments. If washed ashore, these plants eventually take hold, creating a new colony of milfoil. The cycle goes on until every suitable area is filled in with these weeds. An alternative form of the plants develops during low water.
This vegetation type is more succulent than the submersed form and can persist for moderate periods of low water. NHDES has recently collaborated in a study to evaluate the viability of milfoil seeds and the research showed that milfoil seeds are very viable and have a high regeneration rate, though survival of the seedlings is thought to be relatively low. Regardless, seed production in a dense milfoil bed is high, and seeds are thought to be a probable source of new plants, even following extensive control measures (seeds are resistant to herbicides). Data suggest that long-term monitoring and appropriate follow-up activities are needed to truly reduce or potentially eradicate infestations. Regular surveys by NHDES biologists or volunteer Weed Watchers are needed to find new growth early, so that small-scale control measures can address the problem before it spreads.
It is unlikely that seeds are responsible for lake-to-lake spread; fragments are still the primary cause of that problem.
Information taken directly from NH DES Fact Sheet on Variable Milfoil: https://www.des.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt341/files/documents/2020-01/bb-23.pdf