Starry Stonewort Confirmed in Buffalo Lake, Becoming Minnesota’s 38th Infested Water Body

(KNSI) – Buffalo Lake has become the latest Minnesota water body to be invaded by starry stonewort, a troublesome aquatic macroalgae that can choke out native plants and interfere with recreational activities.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources confirmed the presence of the invasive species after city staff reported a suspected sighting near the lake’s south public access. A DNR specialist found sparse densities of the algae at that location, but didn’t find any in other areas of the lake.

The discovery marks the 38th Minnesota water body confirmed to have starry stonewort since the invasive species was first detected in the state in 2015, when it was found on Lake Koronis near Paynesville.

Starry stonewort is typically identified by distinctive star-shaped, bulb-like structures, which become visible in late summer. The algae can form dense mats on lake bottoms, crowding out native vegetation and creating obstacles for swimming, boating, and fishing.

While the species has never been successfully eradicated from any U.S. lake or river, early detection and treatment can help limit its spread and reduce nuisance impacts.

Starry stonewort primarily spreads through fragments that remain on boats and docks when moved between lakes. Minnesota law requires anyone using public waters to clean watercraft, trailers, and equipment to remove aquatic plants and invasive species; drain all water from equipment and leave drain plugs out during transport; dispose of unwanted bait in the trash; and dry docks, lifts, and rafts for 21 days before moving them to another water body.

The DNR also recommends decontaminating equipment at free stations available throughout the state, spraying watercraft with high-pressure water, and drying equipment for at least five days before using it in another lake.

For more on the aquatic invasive species, click here.

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