In a decisive move to combat the escalating threat of invasive species, Lake George is set to undergo an extensive ecological restoration project.
This initiative aims to preserve the lake’s natural beauty and biodiversity, which have been increasingly compromised by non-native flora and fauna.
The proliferation of invasive species such as Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) and zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) has significantly disrupted Lake George’s delicate ecosystem.
These intruders outcompete indigenous species, leading to a decline in native biodiversity and altering the lake’s ecological balance.
The dense mats formed by Eurasian watermilfoil, for instance, hinder recreational activities and impede water flow, while zebra mussels clog water intake structures and outcompete native mollusks.
In response to these challenges, the Lake George Park Commission, in collaboration with the Lake George Association and other environmental stakeholders, has developed a multifaceted restoration plan. The strategy encompasses several key components:
1. Targeted Herbicide Application: Building upon recent successful trials, the controlled use of the herbicide ProcellaCOR will be expanded to manage and reduce dense infestations of Eurasian watermilfoil. This method has demonstrated efficacy in selectively targeting invasive plants while minimizing impacts on native vegetation. Continuous monitoring will ensure environmental safety and assess long-term effectiveness.
2. Mechanical Harvesting and Benthic Barriers: In areas where herbicide application is not feasible, mechanical removal of invasive plants will be employed. Additionally, the installation of benthic barriers—specially designed mats placed on the lakebed—will suppress the growth of invasive plants by blocking sunlight. These physical control methods have been integral in managing invasive species populations in various aquatic ecosystems.
3. Ecosystem Monitoring and Research: The Jefferson Project at Lake George, a collaboration between Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, IBM, and The FUND for Lake George, will continue to provide high-resolution monitoring and data analysis. This research will inform adaptive management strategies, ensuring that restoration efforts are both effective and responsive to emerging challenges.
4. Public Education and Prevention Initiatives: Recognizing the role of human activity in the spread of invasive species, educational programs will be intensified. These initiatives aim to inform the public about preventive measures, such as cleaning boats and equipment before entering the lake, to curb the introduction and spread.
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