2004 Lake Management Initiative

The WLCA is working hard to conserve and protect Weaver Lake. Over the next five years we hope to make improvements in the following areas:

Topics Goals

Exotic Species
Control and reduce Curlyleaf Pondweed

Keep Eurasian Milfoil out of Weaver Lake

Algae
Limit nuisance level of algae blooms <10% of summer days

Water Clarity
Improve Water Clarity to 8 feet on average

Our Biggest Challenge

Without question, our biggest challenge today is Curly Leaf Pondweed (CLPW). This exotic species grows rampantly in Weaver Lake.

If not properly controlled, CLPW

Reduces the usability of Weaver Lake for the month of June

Is unsightly and foul smelling

Dies off and creates tremendous biomass that fuels the growth of Algae

Crowds out native plants that are beneficial to the fish population

2004 Weed Control Plan

The WLCA Board continues to work with the DNR, various experts and the City of Maple Grove to find the best solutions to manage CLPW in Weaver Lake. Our long-term goal is to increase the number of options we have to control CLPW. Our research indicates that there are few viable options to control Curly Leaf in our lake. As a result, we will continue with the harvesting program in 2004 because it

reduces the amount of new CLPW turians (seeds)

reduces the amount of biomass that creates nutrients for algae growth

improves the condition of the lake for recreational purposes.

Investigating Other Methods

We are investigating other methods (such as herbicides) to augment our harvesting program. This year, we will apply a herbicide in limited areas this year to compare the results to both harvested and control (uncut) areas. Depending on the results, we may broaden our use of herbicides in future years.

This year, we are trying an early cold water application of Aquathol-K, which targets Curlyleaf Pondweed. Lake Management, Inc. won the bid to apply the herbicide when the temperatures reach the ideal range, between 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit. Check back for the updated temps.

Your continued support is critical to help us to stamp out this very invasive weed. The long term survival of the lake depends on us to do what we can to preserve this natural resource for our children and their children's enjoyment.