Eurasian watermilfoil (EWM) was first discovered in Lake Minnetonka during the fall of 1987 in Excelsior Bay. Inspection of the Lake the following year found that EWM was widespread throughout Lake Minnetonka. This indicated that EWM was introduced into Lake Minnetonka years before it was reported.
Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) is a submersed invasive aquatic plant that was inadvertently introduced to Minnesota. EWM can limit recreational activities on lakes by forming dense mats on the water surface, and alter aquatic ecosystems by displacing and out-competing native plants.
Recently, the LMCD has been involved in two programs concerning management EWM. These include:
The Lake Minnetonka Conservation District historically used mechanical harvesting to maintain recreational access for the public and riparian property owners. Read more about the harvesting program and its discontinuation.
Riparian lakeshore owners have the ability to manage EWM and other invasive plants around their docks. For residents interested in chemical treatment or private mechanical harvesting, the MN DNR publishes the following lists of licensed Commercial Aquatic Pesticide Applicators and Licensed Mechanical Control Companies: