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Lake Monitoring
Early detection of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) is critical to the health of our chain of lakes. If you find EWM or HEWM follow
the SCLA Rapid Response Plan (fridge magnet size) or here for full size.
Aquatic invasives can have devastating effects on our lakes limiting boating, swimming activities, and reducing property values. Currently 30 households are involved but we are a large lake system, and we need your help. Volunteer to become a Lake Monitor and do what you already do on the lake in your boat or kayak – only with an educated eye toward invasives. It is only a 6-hour commitment per year, and it is Fun! |  |
Why is this program important?
Early detection and reporting of invasive species provides the opportunity to mitigate their spread and reduce the cost of containment and control.
Where does this program run?
This program is a part of the activities of the AIS & Water Quality Committee. The program itself occurs on the water in the kayaks, canoes, and boats of each volunteer. Each volunteer monitors a designated stretch of shoreline and shallows. The goal is to cover the entire Spider Chain of Lakes.
When does this program run?
SCLA volunteers monitor the Spider Chain of Lakes for a number of invasive species both in the water and at the shoreline including Eurasian Water Milfoil (EWM) and Hybrid Eurasian Water Milfoil (HEWM) several times per season from May to October. Both EWM and HEWM begin growing early in Spring and keeps growing late into Fall. Training for the program is generally held in mid June, with presentations by Sawyer County AIS Coordinator and volunteers.
How does this program run?
The Spider Chain of Lakes monitoring program involves regular water quality testing, habitat assessments, and aquatic species surveys. Central to this effort is the SCLA volunteer coordinator, who works closely with over 30 households dedicated to inspecting the perimeter of the lakes. These volunteers play a crucial role in the program, conducting visual checks for invasive species, shoreline erosion, and other environmental concerns. Their collective efforts help maintain the health and sustainability of the lakes, ensuring they remain a vibrant natural resource for the community.
VOLUNTEER LAKE MONITORING PROTOCOL FOR SPIDER CHAIN OF LAKES
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Pick a calm, sunny day for optimal underwater viewing. Mornings are usually an ideal time.
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Slowly paddle or row in areas in your monitoring section where water depths are 3-12feet or wherever plants are growing. This may include areas out in the lake and not just near the shoreline. Multiple trips may need to be taken in each section.
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Use POLARIZED SUNGLASSES to see plants growing underwater.
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Bring a rake with a rope attached to collect suspicious looking plants. If you find a plant and are unsure of the identification, place it in a Ziploc bag with a little water. Then refer to the Rapid Response Plan for the next step. Make sure to mark the location on a map or mark the spot with a fishing buoy.
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GPS units are available from Mary and Fred Kueffer (715-462-9480) if you find invasive aquatic plants to map.
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Look for other things that strike you as out of the ordinary: plants, snails, freshwater jellyfish, zebra mussels, etc.
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Each lake monitor submits a report for each round of monitoring. Most monitors complete two rounds of monitoring each summer.
SCLA lake monitors and residents are our eyes on and in the water.
Lake Monitor training of volunteers is conducted annually. For your guidance, see the Wisconsin Aquatic Invasive Species Early Detector Handbook from the Citizens Lake Monitoring Network. | SCLA RAPID RESPONSE PLAN - SHORT VERSIONClick on the image below for a downloadable PDF
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