New aquatic invasive species found in Coeur d’Alene Lake

A new aquatic invasive species was confirmed in Lake Coeur d’Alene, Friday.

Survey teams from the Idaho State Department of Agriculture and Clean Lakes, an Avista contractor, found fragments of curly leaf pondweed in the lake.

Fragments of the invasive plant were found a the 3rd street boat launch and at Independence Point and Sanders Beach, according to a Coeur d’Alene Tribe news release.

The weed is is a submerge aquatic plant that can grow more than 3 feet long and has wavy, serrated leaves, according to the release.

The weeds can grow together forming “surface mats, interfering with aquatic recreation,” according to the Washington noxious weed control board. “Dense colonies can restrict access to docks and sport fishing. Curly-leaf pondweed has been noted as one of the most severe nuisance aquatic plants in the Midwest.”

The ISDA is considering different methods of controlling the weed, including a combination of chemical and mechanical suppression, according to the Coeur d’Alene Tribe’s release.

Boaters are reminded to clean, drain and dry all watercraft before moving to another body of water.

To report curly leaf pondweed contact Kim Holzer, Idaho State Department of Agriculture at kim.holzer@isda.idaho.gov or Coeur d’Alene Tribe Lake Management Department at (208) 686-6206.

Take photos and note the precise location. Do not attempt treatment without confirmation. The plant is sometimes confused with beneficial native vegetation, the release states.