Invasive Species

Information about Eurasian Milfoil and Swimmers Itch

 

EURASIAN MILFOIL

Clean Boats = Clean Lakes!
Eurasian Watermilfoil is one of the fastest-spreading invasive plants in our lakes. Its thick, aggressive growth blocks sunlight, crowds out native plants, and disrupts the balance of the ecosystem.

When native plants die off, so do the species that depend on them for food and shelter. Dense mats of milfoil make it hard for insects and other organisms—key food sources for fish—to survive. With less food and less open water, fish populations decline too.

How You Can Help

  • Clean, drain, and dry your boat and gear every time you move between waterbodies.

  • Volunteer with our Invasive Species Remediation team — click here to sign up.

Track the Spread

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Together, we can stop the spread of invasive species and keep our lakes healthy for future generations.

SWIMMERS ITCH

Feeding ducks and geese may seem harmless, but it actually increases the risk of Swimmer’s Itch and disrupts the natural balance of our lakes.

What is Swimmer’s Itch?
Swimmer’s Itch, or schistosome cercarial dermatitis, is a skin rash caused when tiny parasites (larval flatworms) accidentally burrow into human skin. The parasites die quickly, but in people who are sensitive, this can trigger an itchy, rash-like reaction.

Why feeding waterfowl makes it worse:

  • More ducks and geese = more parasites in the water.

  • Concentrated feeding areas = higher risk of exposure for swimmers.

  • Artificially feeding birds upsets the natural population balance.

Important to know:

  • Sensitivity to Swimmer’s Itch rarely goes away and often gets worse with repeated exposure.

  • The best prevention is to avoid feeding waterfowl and to help keep our lakes in balance.