Divers found multiple new hydrilla beds, according to an August survey. Some beds were in nearly 30 feet of water, deeper than expected. The plant remains confined to areas near the marina and the north cove of East Twin. But the plant’s footprint is expanding.
New beds were expected given the highly invasive nature of hydrilla, discovered in Twin Lakes only last year. Treatments require tedious state approvals and are still ramping up. Experts had said 20 feet was about as deep as the plant could thrive. They believe the exceptionally clear water in Twin Lakes is allowing the plant to edge deeper.
The TLA responded to these new finds on Sept. 25 with the fast-acting herbicide Diquat, which works well in deep water. Further approved treatments with Sonar, our preferred but tightly controlled herbicide, are scheduled for early October.
The new beds were part of a wide-ranging discussion on Sept. 9, when experts and local authorities toured the north cove in a follow-up to last year’s initial coalition meeting. About 35 attended, including TLA directors, representatives from other lake associations, State Rep. Maria Horn, State Sen. Stephen Harding, First Selectman Curtis Rand, federal and state scientists, and private vendor experts.
The TLA is reviewing the discussion points and developing a plan for 2025. Goals include getting approvals sooner and for broader and repeat applications. The TLA is also gearing up for a fall fundraising drive with a goal of $225,000. Look for more on that in the coming weeks. The TLA projected budget for next year is $350,000. That is up seven-fold from just four years ago.
Boat launch monitors this year gathered valuable data points and shared important insights. The program was generally regarded as a success. The TLA will bring the program back next year.
Monitors inspected 1,195 vessels and were refused only 12 times. Suspect plant matter was detected before three launches and eight times after boats exited. Most boaters cooperated; some asked for a wash station at the marina. The TLA is researching boat-wash systems, which may be eligible for funding through a state grant.
As the climate warms, hydrilla is not our only concern. Higher temperatures bring the threat of increasing algae blooms, some of which may contain cyanobacteria, which can be harmful to humans and wildlife. Jessica Swartz, recently elected to the board, is heading the effort to understand more about cyanobacteria and how to detect and control it.
Representatives of the lake associations in Salisbury will meet on Oct. 10 at 5 p.m. at The Grove on Lakeville Lake to discuss common concerns that range from development to invasive plants. The goal is to strengthen lines of communication, share best practices, and learn from one another how to protect the long-term health of water bodies. The public is welcome. Please RSVP to Bill Littauer at littauerw@gmail.com.
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