Presidents Message

Kettle Moraine Lake Eurasian Watermilfoil (EWM) Update and Control Plan 2024

Prior to applying for a large scale DNR grant last fall, the KMLA worked closely with the DNR and Onterra to design the most ideal whole-lake treatment plan for Kettle Moraine Lake. Data collected from our previous treatments with ProcellaCOR, revealed the needed information on how our lake responded to the herbicide and assisted to identify the concentrations most effective at controlling EWM, while preserving the integrity of our native plant and fish life, as well as the overall health of the lake. Using a combination of detailed lake surveys (performed by Onterra), herbicide concentration data from water sample collections, as well as existing and successful whole-lake projects, a comprehensive plan was created.

We had hoped this plan would be partially funded with a DNR grant; however, we were not granted our bid for funding. With the EWM becoming so widespread, a whopping 482 grant applications were submitted in 2023. The DNR funded only 4 of these projects with the 6.2 million dollars set aside for this grant cycle. The state has not increased the amount for years, so is not able to keep up with the statewide EWM problem. I expect bids will be made to the state to increase available funding for these grants in the future, however relying on acquiring grant funding has seriously and dramatically decreased.

The KMLA Board took all this into consideration when it decided the time to save KML is NOW, and we must move forward with the whole lake treatment. Spot treating was initially necessary to get the data needed see how our lake responded, however it’s not a good long-term plan, as this method would create a resistance to the herbicide over time, reducing or eliminating its effectiveness altogether. In addition, allowing the EWM to get too out of control will almost certainly lead to a point of no recovery. Lakes have been lost to EWM and we don’t intend for KML to be one of them. The whole lake treatment is designed to control the EWM population for 3 years. 2024, 2025, and 2026, with a likely plan to start again in 2027. Therefore, the KMLA has applied for and successfully acquired a permit from the DNR to use ProcellaCOR to do a whole lake effect treatment. Our lake management team from Onterra will perform a pre- treatment lake survey. The treatment itself is expected to take place sometime between mid-May and the first week in June. Details and maps regarding the project can be found on our website kettlemorainelake.org under Invasive Species Control. Scroll to the bottom to download the “Kettle Moraine Lake 2024 Permit Application Package”. The treatment is expected to have hefty results and comes with a very hefty price tag. Treatment and related costs are estimated to be $80,000. We are also due to update our 5- year plan and eligibility with the DNR, estimated to cost an additional $15,000. This project will be 100% funded by the KMLA (approximately $100,000.00).

Thank you for your past support as it has enabled us to take on such a project and your continued involvement will be required for sustained success.

Toni Gilster, President KMLA