(KNSI) — The sounds of swimming, splashing, and boating will return to Minnesota lakes this summer, but there will likely be one unwelcome guest; aquatic invasive species.
A new survey of the state’s lake associations by Minnesota Lakes and Rivers Advocates shows 74% of respondents saying they’re worried about it.
To keep lakes accessible and healthy, local groups and agencies are pouring in resources to manage aquatic plants. AIS manager for the Koronis Lake Association, Kevin Farnum, says property owners are being taxed to help fight AIS, but he’s afraid that the funding associations have to work with will be enough because “lake associations don’t have a source of funding to do any kind of a large management. To give you an idea, our management on Koronis, we could be spending up around $170,000 a year.”
His association has been taxing property owners to get a handle on invasive species like starry stonewort. Grant opportunities are available through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, but some respondents want more even distribution of those grants.
County water resource specialist Emily Gable says that people want to help out because “We have more cities and lake associations aware that we have that funding. And then again, we have that spread of invasive species. So, there’s just more people looking for ways to manage those plants.”
Green Lake Improvement District’s Gordon Haubenschild, who did receive an AIS grant, says the DNR can help in some areas but feels strong partnerships are key. “If we neglect taking care of the treasures because of bureaucracy or, quote, ‘other priorities,’ then we will lose the treasure of enjoying lakes in Minnesota.”
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MNC Reporter Mike Moen contributed to this report.
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