Aquatic plant management learning opportunities at November conference in Madison

September 19, 2005
Sue Jones, 224-3764

Several presentations at the North American Lake Management Society’s November 9–11, 2005 international symposium in Madison will address a recent local controversial topic: the use of the aquatic herbicide “fluridone” to control invasive aquatic plants. Use of aquatic herbicides to control aquatic plants, especially Eurasian water milfoil, the non-native that invaded the Yahara River lakes in the 1960s, has been a hot topic of conversation at waterfronts and in public meetings of late. Some citizens have been intrigued by the experience at Houghton Lake in Michigan, and the use there of a chemical called fluridone to control Eurasian water milfoil. Local papers have also reported Department of Natural Resources staff concerns that fluridone’s use here could cause more problems than it solves. “Two presentations on Thursday morning November 10th will be of particular interest to those who want to learn more about fluridone,” said Sue Jones, Dane County Lakes and Watershed Commission Coordinator and one of the program planners. “Mark Mongin will talk about the Houghton Lake experience, and Jennifer Hauxwell will share the results of her literature review on ecological effects of whole-lake fluridone treatments.” For the price of a one-day conference registration ($175 before September 23, $200 before October 21), on Thursday November 10 attendees can listen to eight presentations from experts from around North America regarding invasive aquatic plants, participate in a panel discussion at the end of the day, and attend the symposium awards banquet where conversations with experts can continue. Dane County Lakes and Watershed Commission Chair Brett Hulsey said, “We’re particularly interested in what we will learn from these sessions because it will help us prepare, update, and improve aquatic plant management plans for Dane County waters.” Friday November 11 is an all-day session on “Madison Lakes and Nearby Waters,” where local experts will address aquatic plant management, along with water quantity, eutrophication, runoff management, in-lake management and citizen involvement. Thanks to grants and generous contributions from the Lakes and Watershed Commission and other local sponsors, the Friday special session registration fee is only $40. Symposium details and online registration can be found at www.nalms.org. The North American Lake Management Society whose goal is to improve lakes and reservoirs by supporting the development, communication and use of excellent science and cutting-edge management. The Madison symposium, to be held at Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, is the 25th annual symposium. # # #