Eurasian Water-Milfoil
Eurasian Water-Milfoil is a non-native invader to North America. Once established, this species is extremely difficult to control as it forms dense mats that can overwhelm native plant communities present within the lake.
Why they are harmful
Eurasian Water-Milfoil can have a detrimental effect on our local lakes and waterways. Some of the ways that Eurasian Water-Milfoil impact our local water ways include:
- Reduced oxygen levels in the water caused by the decomposition of plant matter which can lead to fish kills.
- Dense areas of the plant can cause problems for recreational activities such as boating, swimming and fishing.
- Eurasian Water-Milfoil reduces biodiversity by blocking out native aquatic plants and reduces suitable fish habitat.
- The plant can spread through fragmentation, meaning that if a boat propeller that goes through a stand of Eurasian Water-Milfoil, each fragment has the possibility of becoming its own fully rooted plant. This leads to the spread of the plant very quickly throughout local waterways.
How Eurasian Water-Milfoil got into our lakes
Eurasian Water-Milfoil has been confirmed in 18 lakes in the Greater Sudbury area. Much of the spread is caused through recreational activities and can enter lakes through bilge water, trailers and on boat propellers.
What the City is doing
Learn more about what the City is doing to monitor this invasive species through the Aquatic Vegetation Survey and Mapping Initiative.
How you can help
- Learn to identify aquatic invasive plant species that are a threat to Ontario by visiting www.invadingspecies.com.
- Inspect your boat, trailer, and equipment after each use. Remove all plants, animals, and mud before moving to a new water body.
- Buy native or non-invasive plants from reputable garden suppliers. See Grow Me Instead: Beautiful Non-Invasive Plants for Your Garden.
- Dispose of invasive plants in the garbage. Do not compost them or discard them in natural areas.
- Report Invading Species by calling 1-800-563-7711.
- Download a copy of Help Foil Invasive Species - Eurasian Watermilfoil information card.