Weed Control

FAQ:
Q: Will this treatment be harmful to people or wildlife?

A: Any chemical that is improperly utilized can be harmful. All the chemicals being used by PLM are approved by the EPA and EGLE and will be applied by individuals licensed by the state of Michigan to apply herbicides.

Q: Do we need to stay out of the lake during treatment?

A: The products included in the contract do not have federal swimming restrictions. However, the State of Michigan requires PLM to post a one-day swimming restriction after application to enhance treatment effectiveness by minimizing sediment disturbance. There are no boating or swimming restrictions beyond this, but watering restrictions do apply. Typically, watering turf and ornamentals should be avoided for three to five days after treatment.

Q: What weeds will be treated?

A: PLM will be targeting Eurasian Watermilfoil and Curly Leafpond. These are both considered invasive weeds.

Q: What weeds will not be treated?

A: Lily Pads are not in the scope of the PLM proposal. The lily pad program will be separate from the SAD, as SAD funds are not typically used for individual requests, particularly for lily pads. The program will cost $250 and includes two applications: one in June and a follow-up in late July or early August. Residents will receive an individual form in the spring along with the program notice. I anticipate this program will primarily benefit residents at the west end of the lake, rather than the entire community.

Q: Will this help reduce the goose traffic?

A: PLM makes no claims in this regard. Anecdotally we have heard from other lakes that they have seen a reduction in goose traffic due to a reduction in grasses that geese fed upon.

Q: Are these chemicals harmful to our wells?

A: Chemical treatment of lakes is a widespread practice in Michigan and throughout the United States. To our knowledge there are no reports of well contamination as a result of chemically treating for invasive weeds.

Round Lake Weed Control  summary

PLM

        ◦       PLM has been treating East and West crooked Lakes for the past 15 years.

        ◦       The lakes water quality appeared to be good. The water was clear and no cloudiness was noted.

        ◦       Milfoil, curly leaf and native pond weeds were noted. They include eel grass, clasping and white stem, pond weed, along with char. The native weeds were noted in selective areas around the lake.

        ◦       The company also provides harvesting services. After the first treatment in May, the option to harvest around the lake for any tall native weeds could be provided. To harvest a lake our size it would take about 12 hours at a cost of $4000.

        ◦       Several herbicides were discussed, such as ProcellaCor, Sonar and Diquat.  Fluridone was discussed, however it would not be used until after a four-year water survey was acquired.  The use of fluridone has strict restrictions in place and requires a special permit for use. Several other chemicals were also noted in the quote, but were not specifically discussed during the tour.  They are Flumioxazin, Aqua Strike and Renovate.  Should algae appear chemicals could include Chelated Copper and Seclear G.

        ◦       The quote states multiple treatments may be needed during the growing season to control multiple species that grow at different times during the season.

        ◦       In the spring and summer and on clear days, the lake is receiving about 80% sunlight. The company stated given we have a very small shallow lake the weeds populate quickly.

        ◦       The company contract is for five years.