Dive Day was a huge success! Nearly 40 students participated.
This sign was posted at the boat landing:
The HLIA received a permit from the DNR during 2010 that allowed chemical treatment of 14 acres of Horseshoe Lake. HLIA hired Northern Aquatic Services to conduct the chemical treatment.
Chemical treatment was completed on Monday, June 14, 2010.
Northern Aquatic Services reported that the milfoil has spread extensively.
The chemical treatment was sprayed on the water surface.
Swimming was allowed in treated areas one day after the treatment.
Water usage restrictions for the treated area were posted on yellow signs in treated areas.
A map of the treated areas can be found at the link below. The white lines on the map are areas that were chemically treated. The circles outline areas that were suggested for plant removal by diving during the summer.
Important information regarding the invasion of hybrid water milfoil into Horseshoe Lake:
Horseshoe Lake has a hybrid milfoil plant invading the native vegetation. Milfoil can form dense mats that can cause some fish species to die out and can endanger swimmers who get tangled in it.
Hybrid milfoil can be killed or slowed by herbicide applications that kill all plants (not fish) in treatment area. This is effective but costly.
Hybrid milfoil is strong and pliable in spring and very brittle and will shatter in the fall. It's the first plant to emerge in the spring and the last plant to die in the fall.
It only takes 1/2 inch to start a new plant.
Hybrid milfoil dies after it is removed from the water. Dispose of it well up on shore.
Milfoil decreases property values after it begins to dominate a lake.
One of the best weapons you have to slow this invasion is to physically remove plants you can reach. Another weapon you have is provided by nature: established natural plants can slow down or stop the invasion. For this reason, DO NOT USE WATER HERBICIDE! Herbicide kills all the plants where applied. After the damage is done, the highly aggressive milfoil plant will be the first to reestablish itself. Local, natural plants then have no chance. Fast-growing milfoil smothers anything that attempts to grow under it.
Hybrid milfoil plants in Horseshoe Lake:
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Do not drive thru or cast into milfoil visible from your watercraft - stay farther from shore.
Keep a net in your watercraft to scoop up floating milfoil segments.
Take care of your own lake shore by carefully removing and disposing of milfoil plants.
Educate yourself and your guests by reviewing information on this web site and other information resources on the Internet.
Stay clear of milfoil divers and snorkelers when you see dive flags or snorkeling activity.
Donate hours and document your volunteer time to help meet DNR Grant requirements.
If you are a property owner on Horseshoe Lake, join the Horseshoe Lake Improvement Association. If you already consider yourself a member, verify that your dues are up to date. The annual dues are only $50 of which $40 goes toward the milfoil control program.
Donate additional funds to the milfoil control program. Herbicide treatments are needed for the current problem areas. Each year there will be new problem areas.
Donations of any size are greatly appreciated! Send your donations to the HLIA.
Volunteers are needed! Go here to find a form to use to keep track of your time and expenses.
