Milfoil is Staging a Comeback / New Arrival

Let’s get right to the point: invasive variable-leaf milfoil is staging a comeback in our lake.

The herbicide treatment done in August of 2020 was very effective, yielding a significant reduction in plant infestation. BUT -- invasive aquatic plants are tenacious. In 2024, we saw significant growth in the original infestation site despite that section being classified as a Surface Use Restriction area.

In 2025, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection determined that another herbicide treatment was necessary. While the process was much the same as in 2020, one significant difference was the cost to ALIA: the 2020 treatment cost was offset largely by grants, whereas ALIA bore the responsibility for fundraising the entire cost of 2025’s effort: $52,000. Thanks to the generosity of our members, along with a welcome matching donation from Kennebec Savings Bank, we were able to just meet that goal.

While we anticipate the treatment will slow the re-emergence of invasive variable-leaf milfoil over the next few years — its eventual re-appearance is all but inevitable… meaning we must continue to take an aggressive stance if we ever hope to eradicate this threat to our lake.

Without these necessary actions, this infestation (and, as of 2025, the discovery of European frog-bit, another invasive species) could devour the lake and render it all but useless for recreational purposes, while destroying its aesthetic appeal and ultimately diminishing lakefront property values.

Your generous contribution will make the project possible. You can use the QR codes or the address seen here to donate toward this effort. THANK YOU!