Aquatic Plant Control – Before You Begin
	29th April, 2010 - Tony Groves, Pam Tyning, Paul Hausler - Progressive AE

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Before embarking on a plant control program, there are several things that should be considered. First, it is important to realize that aquatic plants are an essential component of lakes. Plants in lakes produce oxygen during photosynthesis, help stabilize shoreline and bottom sediments, and provide habitat and cover for fish and other aquatic inhabitants. There are several types of aquatic plants including emergent, floating-leaved, submersed, and free-floating. Each of these plant types provides important ecological functions. Most aquatic plants are beneficial.

Second, excessive removal of aquatic plants can have negative consequences. For example, broad-spectrum herbicide treatments can result in algae blooms and reduced water clarity which, in turn, can be detrimental to the fishery. Maintaining a diversity of beneficial plants is as important as controlling nuisance and exotic species.

Third, not all lakes were created equal. Some lakes will naturally support abundant vegetation while, in other lakes, vegetation is relatively sparse. Different lakes may afford different recreational opportunities. A lake that naturally supports abundant vegetation may also support a prime fishery, and may not be suited for high-speed boating and water skiing. Many lakes support a variety of uses; however, portions of the lake may be better suited for fishing and more passive recreational uses such as fishing or kayaking. Aquatic plants should not be managed with only one use in mind. Rather, one must strike a reasonable balance between desired lake uses, while preserving the functional value of aquatic plants.

Finally, the distribution and abundance of aquatic plants are dependent on several variables including light penetration, bottom type, temperature, water depth, and the availability of plant nutrients. If conditions are favorable, plants will grow. How you manage your lake shoreland can have a profound impact on plant growth in the lake. For example, adding fertilizer to your lawn will likely increase plant growth in the lake too.