New Invasive Variable Water Milfoil Infestation on Annabessacook Lake in Winthrop
September 24, 2014
Contact: Jessamine Logan, Communications Director, jessamine.logan@maine.gov or (207) 287-5842 or John McPhedran, john.mcphedran@maine.gov or 215-9863
AUGUSTA- Following a collection of water-milfoil plant samples by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, the Maine Volunteer Lake Monitoring Program, Annabessacook Lake Improvement Association, Cobbossee Watershed District and Friends of Cobbossee Watershed on Annabessacook Lake, two specimens have been positively identified as invasive variable water-milfoil (Myriophyllum heterophyllum).
?Early detection and a coordinated approach are key to stop the spread of invasive species and its successful management,? said Maine DEP Commissioner Patricia Aho. ?Staff within the Bureau of Land and Water Quality are headed to Annabessacook Lake this week to begin a rapid response and immediately resurvey the area where the infestation is thought to be. The department is hopeful the infestation has been found early when it is most controllable.?
In 2013, a Courtesy Boat Inspector spotted a plant that she believed was variable water-milfoil near the Waugan Road boat launch. In July and August 2014, DEP, VLMP, CWD and FOCW staff along with trained lake association volunteers surveyed the entire nearshore area of Annabessacook Lake.
Of the eight samples sent for DNA analysis, two are invasive water-milfoil. The results also confirm that there are two native milfoils, which closely resemble the invader. Due to this resemblance, the department encourages homeowners to contact the department or VLMP before taking any action to remove plants from the lake.
?We are disappointed anytime a new invasive aquatic species infestation is found, ? said DEP?s Invasive Unit Leader John McPhedran. ?However, we are confident our plan for detecting and removing invasive plants works and fortunate that a Courtesy Boat Inspector reported what they believed was the invasive milfoil on Annabessacook Lake. This allowed the department to partner with organizations to confirm the infestation.?
The Lakes Environmental Association and DEP have administered the Courtesy Boat Inspection Program since 2001. In 2013, the inspections topped the 80,000 mark for the second consecutive year.
There are now 24 known waterbody systems in Maine with invasive aquatic plant infestations.
For more information about invasive aquatic species in Maine, contact John McPhedran at john.mcphedran@maine.gov or review our website at: http://www.maine.gov/dep/water/invasives/. -end-