Weed & Algae Control Programs
Many of us are frustrated by overgrown plants and algae in our lakes. Many are invasive plants that were introduced into our waters in years past. They can be quite aggressive and out-compete the beneficial native plants. Chemical herbicide treatments are used to control the invasive plants, but it is not possible to totally eliminate them. Native plants can also become so abundant that they become a nuisance and are generally managed through harvesting.
Photo Credit: Mark Teicher
Weed and Algae Control Programs
In 2015, the HRCOLA, with support from the four townships that govern our lakes and many donors, hired Restorative Lakes Sciences (RLS) to conduct a scientific study of the invasive weeds in the Huron River Chain of Lakes. In response to the report Washtenaw County and Hamburg Township now run programs to help manage the weeds and algae.
The Hamburg Township Huron River Chain of Lakes Water Improvement Special Assessment District covers:
- Zukey Lake
- Strawberry Lake
- Gallagher Lake
The Washtenaw County Lake Improvement Project covers:
- Portage Lake
- Little Portage Lake
- Base Line Lake
- Tamarack Lake
- Whitewood
Every spring, the biologists from Progressive AE survey the lakes to identify problem areas and provide detailed treatment and harvest maps to Washtenaw County and Hamburg Township. Follow-up surveys are conducted throughout the growing season to evaluate the effectiveness of the program and adjust treatments accordingly. The extent and timing of treatment is limited by the State of Michigan EGLE permitting process. The State permits protect native plants and species. Although the treatment program can’t return our lakes to their preinvasion status, they do make a significant difference.
The HRCOLA Board regularly monitors the weed and algae control activities and provides feedback from the community to both Washtenaw County and Hamburg Township.
More information of the programs and schedules for harvesting and chemical applications are available on the Washtenaw County and Hamburg Township websites. We also include information on the schedule in our current events.