Invasive Species Control

Most lake “weeds” are beneficial. They provide habitat for fish and help keep our lakes healthy. But, when some (mostly non-native) plants are introduced into a lake, they can crowd out the beneficial native weeds, harm fisheries, and interfere with boating, swimming, fishing and other recreational activities.

Such aquatic invasive species (AIS) pose the greatest immediate threat to lakes in Michigan and remain  a the top priority for the Gull Lake Quality Organization. For the last several years, GLQO volunteers have been on the look-out for new invasive species in our lakes. The discovery of starry stonewort—a highly aggressive algae—in Gull Lake at the end of the summer gives new urgency to our efforts to prevent, detect, and combat AIS.

Along with Starry Stonewort, Eurasian watermilfoil and zebra mussels have been found in Gull Lake.

The small, star-shaped bulbil is found on Starry Stonewort.

Zebra Mussels found in Gull Lake.

Eurasion Watermilfoil (photo by Lois Wolfson, Michigan State University)

Michigan’s Invasive Species Program is cooperatively implemented by the Michigan Departments of Agriculture & Rural Development, Environmental Quality and Natural Resources. Learn more about invasive species found in Michigan.