PROGRAMS
LAKE MONITORING
For five years TLEA's Environmental Committee has sponsored a lakeshore monitoring program designed to monitor the location and spread of variable leaf milfoil and to search for any new invasive plants in Thompson Lake.
Variable leaf milfoil is only one of 11 invasive lake plants identified by the DEP. Fortunately, although it is an unsightly nuisance and provides thick mats of vegetation that prohibit swimming and boating, it is one of the tamest of the 11. It has been growing in Thompson for more than twenty years. In that time it has spread to several locations on the lake, mainly still water, shallow coves. It spreads to new areas by a method called fragmentation. When a motor boat crosses over the plant, the boat's propeller chops up the milfoil stem which then floats to a new location. Fortunately, most of the Thompson Lake shoreline is not ideal for milfoil propagation.
The Volunteer Lake Monitoring Program (VLMP) in Auburn provides training in lakeshore monitoring and plant identification for all our volunteers. TLEA's monitors survey a specific section of Thompson Lake, typically by their property. The monitors either paddle or swim along the shore out to a distance of about 15 feet, looking for milfoil or any other suspicious plants. They then record and chart all infestations. Any suspicious plants are submitted to VLMP for identification. To view the Maine Volunteer Lake Monitoring Program "2008 Maine Lakes Report", CLICK HERE.
Since the lake was entirely surveyed by the University of Maine in 2002, TLEA's Lake Monitors have found 5 new areas of infestation on Thompson. The best time of year for surveying for invasive plants is mid-July to the end of August when the plants are fully developed. Volunteers are always welcome to join the group. The prerequisites are ability to kayak, canoe, or even swim along the shore and an interest in helping preserve the health of the lake. TLEA will arrange training and provide volunteers with an underwater viewing device. CLICK HERE for more information.
Plant Survey Using A Bucket Scope
Maine Lakes with Certified Volunteer Invasive Plant Patrollers
