During a recent government meeting, officials discussed an amendment to the 2024 Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Program, focusing on the urgent need for additional funding to combat a significant milfoil bloom in Sturgeon Lake. Kelly Schroeder, the county auditor and treasurer, presented the request for approval to amend the existing AIS plan, which initially allocated $40,000 to the Windermere Lake Association for treatment efforts.

The Windermere Lake Association has reported a troubling increase in milfoil, with a recent survey indicating that 75 acres of Sturgeon Lake are affected. The total estimated cost for effective treatment is approximately $188,000. In response to this urgent situation, the association proposed reallocating the previously designated funds for Island Lake to Sturgeon Lake and requested an additional $30,000 from unspent AIS funds from prior years.

Noah Cashman, vice chair of the Windermere Township Lakes Association, emphasized the importance of addressing the milfoil issue promptly, noting that previous treatments with Procellacor had yielded mixed results. While the treatment had been effective in reducing milfoil in Island Lake, it failed to control the invasive species in Sturgeon Lake this year, leading to the current crisis.

The discussion highlighted concerns about the effectiveness of past treatments, with Cashman indicating that the applicator had not adhered to recommended dosage levels, which may have contributed to the resurgence of milfoil. The association is now considering switching to a different herbicide and has consulted with a new company, PLM, which specializes in invasive species management.

The urgency of the situation was underscored by the visible impact on local boaters, who reported frequent clogging of their motors due to the invasive plant. The board members expressed their support for the funding request, recognizing the importance of maintaining the health of the lakes and the community's recreational resources.

As the meeting concluded, the board was urged to act swiftly to approve the additional funding, ensuring that the treatment efforts can commence without delay to prevent further spread of the invasive species.