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Hydrilla’s arrival in Michigan: Learn how communities can safeguard inland lakes

From: Michigan State University Extension

Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata), an aggressive invasive aquatic plant, was discovered in Michigan for the first time in late summer 2023 and poses a significant threat to Michigan’s inland lakes. Below we feature advice shared with us from other states where hydrilla has already caused significant environmental and economic damage to lakes. Michigan’s lakeshore residents can help prevent the spread of hydrilla here by learning how to identify and report it through the Michigan Clean Water Corps (MiCorps) Exotic Aquatic Plant Watch

Challenges in Connecticut

In 2016, Connecticut discovered a new subspecies of hydrilla that infested over 70 miles of the Connecticut River. Jeremiah Foley, Ph.D., a research scientist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, highlights the significance of early detection.

“The arrival of a new strain of hydrilla raises questions about its potential rate of growth, spread, and impacts,” he says.

Foley’s program integrates biological control agents with aquatic herbicides to manage the infestation. He stresses the importance of the “Clean, Drain, Dry” protocol to prevent the spread of invasive species.

“By following these protocols and engaging in vigilant monitoring, Michigan can protect its aquatic ecosystems from the impacts of hydrilla,” Foley continues.

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