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Pondweed Pilot Program Shows Modest Gains; Commission to Map Clasping Pondweed in August
Summary
Officials said year-two pondweed removals yielded less material and a shift toward clasping pondweed; commissioners asked the lake consultant to map density in August and discussed long-term control options.
Wetlands Agent Savannah Kitchin presented year-two results from the 2026 Pondweed Removal Pilot Program at the town beach, reporting that “less material was removed from the same location compared to last year,” and noting a species shift toward clasping pondweed rather than Elodea. She confirmed two new applications were received for this season (#9 — 6 Sunnyslopes Rd., Bob Powell; #10 — 7 Lower Woodland Terrace, James Doran) and that the application window has closed.
Commissioners discussed observed spread of clasping pondweed in multiple coves and shoreline areas, and noted phosphorus readings were the highest since 2022. Commissioner Roickle asked the lake consultant to prioritize mapping the density and distribution of clasping pondweed during an August survey. The Commission discussed management options — continued hand-pulling, mechanical harvesting, biological controls (fish), and herbicide as a last resort — and agreed the pilot showed modest improvement but is not a permanent solution.
