“People spread Eurasian watermilfoil primarily through the movement of water-related equipment. Plant fragments can get tangled on boats, trailers, motors, ANCHORS and other water-related equipment. All it takes is a single plant fragment to start a new population.“ *

The highly prolific Eurasian watermilfol, which can grow in water up to 33 feet or more in depth**, can be a RECREATION KILLER. It grows up to 2 inches per day to the surface, where it branches profusely and creates dense mats that impede recreation and navigation. Twice each summer, the perennial Eurasian watermilfoil shoots up unsightly spikes 4-8 inches above the surface mats!

PREVENTATIVE measures are critical. Why? Regulations prohibit herbicide from being used in West Lake Okoboji due to its rare "Outstanding Iowa Water" regulatory designation and as a drinking water source for several municipalities.*** (Exceptions may be granted but only after a time-consuming administrative process.) Mechanical harvesting methods cause fragmentation of the milfoil , which can result in new colonies.

As a shallow bay with disturbed areas and compromised native aquatic vegetation from persistent concentrated mass anchoring, Millers Bay is “particularly susceptible” to a Eurasian watermilfoil invasion and, with the high watercraft traffic boating to Millers Bay from other areas on the Okoboji chain of lakes , the likelihood of introduction of Eurasian watermilfoil fragments increases.****

Eurasian watermilfoil fragments on anchors dropped in Millers Bay endanger its recreation and fishing. The Millers Bay Conservancy asks boaters to please refrain from anchoring in Millers Bay to prevent a devastating Eurasian watermilfoil infestation in this popular shallow bay that could easily spread to other areas of West Okoboji. What happens in Millers Bay does not stay in Millers Bay, when it comes to Eurasian watermilfoil. If you must drop anchor, first clean your anchor, anchor line, prop, water toys and gear, and dispose of debris in the trash or on dry land! Spread the Word, NOT the Weed!

* Minnesota DNR, emphasis added. ** Phillips, Gary S. (2001) "Eurasian Watermilfoil: Status and Management in Iowa," Journal of the Iowa Academy of Science: JIAS, 108(4), 171-174. *** Per Dennis Heimdal, State Hygienic Laboratory, and Dr. Mary Skopec, Iowa Lakeside Lab. **** Per Dr. Mary Skopec, Iowa Lakeside Lab

Eurasian watermilfoil was found in the Millers Bay canals in 2023: dickinsoncountynews.com/news/invasive-aquatic-plants-confirmed-west-lake-okoboji