The Danger

Eurasian water milfoil is not a theoretical threat to Skaneateles Lake. It is not a potential problem for future generations. It is an immediate and significant disruption to the natural balance of the lake environment.

Without this eradication effort, the lake will change in dramatic, irreparable ways:

Recreation – The most obvious impact of milfoil for lake residents and visitors is its disruption of almost all recreational activities. Milfoil grows to the surface in thick tangles that are virtually impossible to swim through. It impedes kayaking, rowing and canoeing. It clogs boat propellers. It is dangerous to ski across. Because milfoil grows at shallow depths (8-15 feet), it has a strong negative impact on all common lake recreational activities.

Aesthetics – One of the most beautiful bodies of water in the world, Skaneateles Lake faces the prospect of thick floating mats of vegetation in all areas with water depths of 8-15 feet. This includes much of the lake surface visible from downtown Skaneateles. Hundreds of lake residents already experience surface level vegetation in front of their homes, especially in the southern half of the lake. Further, when milfoil breaks apart in storms, it piles up in unsightly rotting masses at the shoreline. Untreated, Skaneateles Lake may eventually look like the lake pictured above.

Ecosystem – Although less obvious, the impact on the delicate lake ecosystem is perhaps the greatest threat of all. Because it grows in thick stands parallel to the shore, milfoil acts as a barrier to the flow of silt and organic material into deeper water. Material from brooks and other runoff from across the watershed, blocked by milfoil, is trapped in shallow water, creating unnaturally muddy, nutrient-rich areas close to shore. This scenario leads to greatly increased algae levels and imbalances in the ecosystem. In addition, milfoil crowds out other, more beneficial, aquatic plants.

Water quality – Increases in algae and silt levels described above can lead to murky, impure water, requiring additional filtration for drinking use. Further, milfoil stands can clog the intakes of water systems. 

The current infestation, though very severe, is still at a reversible level. However, if left to spread for several more years, the quantity of milfoil in Skaneateles Lake would be so huge that it would be impossible to remove it at a rate faster than it spreads. Thick stands of milfoil, ringing the entire lake, would be a permanent fixture of our waterscape.

Make your donation to fund the eradication effort.