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The GLA performs the following services to prevent/control
the spread Zebra Mussels and other exotic species into the lake, which could cause damage to the
ecosystem.
Boat
Washing:
Boat washing is preformed by paid summer help and supervised by GLA volunteers.
An inspection and/or power spray operation is performed on boats being launched
into Glen Lake at the DNR public launch on Little Glen Lake to prevent the
intrusion of invasive species and further spread of zebra mussels. We wash
down boats and trailers as well as flush outboard motors and out drives.
Invasive species educational information is offered and made available to all.
Key
Benefits:
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Helps
prevent further infestation of Zebra Mussels
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Helps
prevent infestation of Eurasian water milfoil
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Helps
prevent infestation of other unwanted species
Plant
Surveys:
Plant
surveys are conducted by the Water Quality Committee in conjunction with the
Zebra Mussel Committee to ascertain the make up of plant life in the lakes.
To date all plant life found in our lakes have been found to be either
beneficial or neutral to the ecosystem in our water. Plant samples are
collected at one, four, and eight foot depths at even intervals around the
perimeter of the lakes. All plants are identified, counted by species, and
results are documented . These findings are then reported to our Michigan State
University consultant for evaluation.
Purposes are to:
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Search for exotic invaders, particularly Eurasian watermilfoil*
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Produce and aquatic plant map of the lake
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Identify and quantify the aquatic plants of Glen Lake
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Collect, dry, and press samples of each species of aquatic plant found to
share with the Glen Lake Association and homeowners
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Recognize future shifts in the number and density of the aquatic plant
populations of Glen Lake
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Cautiously use the information obtained related to species and their densities
for the management of aquatic plants
Key Benefits:
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Provides assessment of the lakes plant life, good or bad
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Provides historical information to plant life trends
- Allows
for assessing necessary corrective action, if and when, invasive species are
found.
* The following picture shows what
Eurasian Watermilfoil looks like.
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