The
infestation of milfoil in New England's lakes and ponds is the biggest threat
to our waters and could cost millions of dollars in reduced property taxes,
removal expenses and lost tourism dollars. Heavy plant growth causes
entanglement of boats and motors in thick weed beds, causes reduced fishing and
water recreation opportunities, and represents a nuisance and potential danger
to swimmers.
The
most common cause of milfoil infestations is through boat propellers that chop
up pieces of the milfoil plant. These fragments float on the surface and are
spread by the wind and lake currents. In a short period of time the roots form
on the cut portion of the plant. They eventually wash to shore or sink in
shallow water and take root creating a new colony of milfoil.
Jordan
River Marina Condominium Association (JRMCA) is located on Crockett Road in
Raymond on the Jordan River that leads into Sebago Lake. There are three areas
with boat slips in the same general location. Panther Run Marina, Indian Point
and JRMCA. Over several years there has been a continual infestation of
variable milfoil continuing to grow.
Since
2006, Gale Pillsbury of the JRMCA has written grant applications submitted
through the Lake Environmental Association. These are reviewed by the Department
of Environmental Association for the State of Maine. The milfoil stickers
purchased when you register a boat are the source of funding for the grants.
Over
the years, JRMCA has been awarded grants and has hired a dive team from New
England Milfoil to do the work pulling the milfoil using divers and a suction
harvester. When JRMCA first started work to remove milfoil in the marina the
plant was so invasive it was floating on the surface of the water.
For
2015, Gale is looking hoping to work together with Indian Point and Panther Run
Marina to expand the effort of remediation.
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