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Invasive Plants

Invasive plants can destroy a lake. There are many lakes throughout the state that are in trouble. We want you to be aware of the fact that Lake Helen is no longer exempt from the problem. Plants that are detrimental to the health of the lake have entered our beautiful waters. We need everyone's help to get a handle on this problem and to stop the spreading. 
 
The first major Eurasian Water Milfoil (EWM) control treatment took place on TUESDAY MAY 27th, 2014  

This treatment was done by a professional applicator under a permit that was granted by the Wisconsin DNR. The treatment needed to take place when the water temperature was right for the EWM to be growing, but it was still too early for the native plants.  Now we need to wait and see just how effective the treatment was.  It is likely that some EWM will continue to propagate and grow, so the manual pulling will need to continue.  
If you see any EWM plants, please contact Tom Gerlikovski or one of the other Commissioners. 

 

Lake Helen Eurasian Water Milfoil Locations

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EWM Locations 2013
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Aquatic Plant Survey

2013 EWM Survey - the plant is spreading

Click on the images to the left to checkout:  
1. A GPS view of Lake Helen showing the places where  “Eurasian Water Milfoil (EWM)” has been found)
2. A listing of the plants found in the lake.
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EWM Locations 2008-2011

2011 EWM Survey and Treatment


Click on the image to the left to checkout a GPS view of Lake Helen showing the places where  “Eurasian Water Milfoil (EWM)” was found and treated in 2008,9,10, & 11 

Eurasian Water Milfoil

Be Aware - Identify - Communicate  [click on each line below to expand & learn more]

1. BE AWARE        -  Why should I care?

2. IDENTIFY          -  Show me how to identify Eurasian Milfoil

3. COMMUNICATE -  What should I do if I find Eurasian Milfoil?

 
EARLY DETECTION & RESPONSE GRANT
The Lake Helen R&P District has been taking action to stop the spread of Eurasian Water Milfoil (EWM) and other invasive species.  An "EARLY DETECTION & RESPONSE GRANT" has been applied for and approved.  The grant will provide funds from the state for a two-year period  to help with this huge task.

Japanese Knotweed

Japanese Knotweed was found on a couple properties on Lake Helen in September 2012. Eight lake members along with AIS Regional Specialist, Kaycie Stushek, pulled and treated the weed. More plants were pulled on one property in the fall of 2013.

Aquatic Invasive Species Pulling and Monitoring activities