Critical Threats: Invasive Plants
Eurasian Watermilfoil
This aggressive grower forms dense mats at the water's surface, displacing native species and severely degrading water quality for recreation.
Curly-leaf Pondweed
Mid-summer die-offs release huge amounts of phosphorus into the water, causing hazardous blue-green algae blooms across Minnesota lakes.
Starry Stonewort
A fast-spreading macro-algae that creates thick underwater cushions, choking out native vegetation and obliterating vital fish spawning habitats.
Wildlife at Risk
Invasive aquatic animals like Zebra Mussels and Rusty Crayfish are aggressive disruptors of Minnesota’s lake ecosystems. These non-native species rapidly colonize native spawning grounds, outcompeting local fish for food and physically altering the underwater landscape that sustains our local wildlife.
The long-term impact on water quality is profound. By filtering out microscopic organisms essential to the food web, these invaders can shift ecological balances, leading to increased algae blooms and decreased biodiversity. Protecting your shoreline ensures a healthier habitat where native species can thrive once again.
Ecological Impact
Invasive flora such as Curly-leaf Pondweed and Eurasian Watermilfoil aggressively outcompete native vegetation, depleting oxygen levels and destroying critical spawning habitats. This disruption threatens the long-term sustainability of the entire aquatic food web.
The Impact & Strategic Management of Invasive Species
Minnesota’s lakes are vital ecological assets. The introduction of invasive species poses a dual threat to biological diversity and economic stability, requiring a disciplined, veteran-led approach to mitigation.
Economic Risk
Unmanaged infestations significantly degrade property values and recreational utility. ClearWater’s management protocols are designed to protect your investment, ensuring shorelines remain navigable, swimmable, and attractive for residents and resort guests alike.
CLEAN • DRAIN • DRY • STOP THE SPREAD • PROTECT OUR LAKES • CLEAN • DRAIN • DRY
Stop the Spread
01. Clean
Remove all visible aquatic plants, mud, and debris from your boat, trailer, and gear after every use and before leaving the water access.
02. Drain
Pull the plug and drain all water from bilges, livewells, and motors before transporting your watercraft away from the lake site.
03. Dry
Allow your watercraft and equipment to dry completely for at least five days before launching into a different body of water.
04. Dispose
Always put unwanted bait in the trash, not in the water. Never release pets or plants from home aquariums into the wild.