The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is taking new steps to combat the unprecedented aquatic vegetation growth at Indian Lake. This week, in collaboration with AquaDoc, ODNR will begin a trial application of ProcellaCOR EC, a selective systemic herbicide.
While ODNR harvesters have been making headway, ProcellaCOR EC has the potential to be used as an additional tool to alleviate the vegetation issues more efficiently. ProcellaCOR EC targets Eurasian Watermilfoil, the dominant plant species impacting the lake in the mid-to-late summer months. Using best management practices, the chemical will be applied to a small test area, 200-250 acres, and monitored for effectiveness. The area, on the south bank of the lake, was chosen because it will allow the test area to be contained and enables ODNR and AquaDoc to closely monitor nutrient release and oxygen levels. It is not located near residential areas.
Photo by Kevin CampbellPhoto by Kevin CampbellHarvesters will cut lanes in the vegetation today (July 7th) and tomorrow (July 8th) to provide access for equipment to conduct the treatment. Weather permitting, spraying of the herbicide will take place on Tuesday, July 12th, and Wednesday, July 13th. The test area will be marked. Boaters are asked to avoid the area.
Weekly plans, photos and videos, and operational reports of vegetation removal have been and will continue to be posted on the Indian Lake Aquatic Vegetation Management page on ODNR’s website and on the Indian Lake State Park Facebook page. Additional signage will soon be placed throughout the park to provide direct links to vegetation removal information.
One of the weed harvestersOne of the weed harvestersODNR is working with AquaDoc, a lake and pond management company, to determine the current vegetation community, analyze the effectiveness of current methods for vegetation control and develop a Lake Vegetation Management Plan to address maintaining overall water quality and recreational use of the system.?As part of its current work to develop a long-term management plan for vegetation, AquaDoc recommended testing ProcellaCor EC on the Eurasian Watermilfoil in Indian Lake.
The feedback and recommendations of stakeholders are extremely valuable. Please contact ODNR staff by emailing Indian.lake.parks@dnr.ohio.gov.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
