Androscoggin Milfoil Project

Variable Leaf Milfoil Infestation in Androscoggin Lake

During an early September plant survey in 2020, a volunteer plant patroller found a suspicious plant in Androscoggin Lake’s Inner Cove. After obtaining a sample and sending it in for DNA testing with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (MEDEP), the plant was confirmed as variable-leaf water milfoil (VLM). Since then, 30 Mile has worked with Androscoggin Lake Improvement Cooperation (ALIC) to raise awareness and funds to combat the highly invasive plant.

 

What does 30 Mile do to help fight the infestation?

Since the summer of 2021, 30 Mile hires 2-3 summer staff to survey the Inner Cove 3-5 days a week for 4-5 hours a day. By surveying strategically, the team is able to locate VLM plants, mark them with a buoy and GPS, and have them hand removed by a diver certified by the Maine DEP and hired by 30 Mile. 30 Mile also hires Courtesy Boat Inspectors (CBI) to occupy the public boat launch on Route 133 in Wayne for 7 days a week coverage during the summer season. A CBI inspects boats coming in and out of Androscoggin Lake for aquatic invasive species and educate boaters about the infestation.

Surface Use Restriction (SUR)

The purpose of the temporary surface use restriction on Androscoggin Lake is to support work to eradicate the invasive aquatic plant variable-leaved water-milfoil (Myriophyllum heterophyllum, VWM) and to prevent spread of this plant in Androscoggin Lake and to other lakes during plant removal work in 2024. Click to expand the map below. 

30 Mile Milfoil Map

Navigate the map below to see where variable leaf milfoil has been found on Androscoggin Lake. This map is updated throughout the season, as we find milfoil plants. 

What YOU can do

Clean. Drain. Dry.

Anytime you take out or put your boat in a body of water, be sure to Clean. Drain. and Dry your boat, trailer, and equipment to reduce the spread of invasive aquatic species. Clean off any visible plants, animals, mud. Drain your watercraft bilge, livewell, motor and other water containing devices. Dry everything for at least five days OR wipe with a towel before reuse.

Stay out of the Surface Use Restriction (SUR) area and Inner Cove

It’s against the law for unauthorized personnel to move into or through the SUR within the Inner Cove.  We advise boaters, swimmers, fisherman, recreators, etc. to steer away from the northern end of the cove in general.

Join ALIC’s Eyes on the Water plant patrol team.

Each team member has a section along the shoreline they are assigned to survey every season. The Eyes on the Water team also assists 30 Mile with surveys in the Inner Cove during the fall, once summer staff have gone back to school. If you’re interested, contact the team coordinator, Buddy Cummings at jc2332@gmail.com.

Join the Androscoggin Lake Improvement Corporation (ALIC) 

Incorporated in 1980, ALIC has over 120 member families and supporters. ALIC works closely with and supports 30 Mile’s programming. 

Donate to the Save Androscoggin Campaign

The Save Androscoggin Campaign strictly addresses work toward eradicating invasive milfoil and reducing the chance of recurring algae blooms. Learn more this effort here.

News & Updates

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