Crystal Lake and Aquatic Invasive Species

Retired surgeon Jim Hamp was the second speaker from the Crystal Lake & Watershed Association.

Jim explained that another important project that the Association has undertaken is its effort to control aquatic invasive species like phragmites and quagga mussels.  Without natural enemies these exotics can drive out native species and can cause permanent damage to an area such as a lake. This is the main reason the Association established a boat-washing facility-- to keep boaters from Lake Michigan or elsewhere from bringing quagga mussels or Eurasian water-milfoil into Crystal Lake.

 

The Association also has conducted an inventory of Crystal Lake's aquatic vegetation that is ongoing.  It also is engaged in shoreline stewardship.