Water Hyacinth and Water Lettuce Monitoring

In October 2015, water hyacinth and water lettuce – two of the most problematic aquatic invasive species (AIS) in the world – were discovered in Lake Onalaska (Pool 7 of the Mississippi River) near Onalaska, Wisconsin. Since then, members of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, River Alliance of Wisconsin, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Lake Onalaska Protection and Rehabilitation District and Brice Prairie Conservation Association, among others, have teamed up to monitor and remove water hyacinth and water lettuce from Lake Onalaska. Tens of thousands of plants were removed from Lake Onalaska in 2015, but more than likely, a few sneaky, well camouflaged plants were overlooked.

While it is unknown if water hyacinth and water lettuce can survive Wisconsin's winters, we are not willing to take that risk! Join us for a fun, educational paddle and do your part to stop aquatic hitchhikers!

Participants will need to provide their own boats and paddles, life vests, water and other outdoor necessities (sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, etc). Canoes or kayaks can be used. 

Advance registration required.

Website: https://www.wisconsinrivers.org/events/display/item/water-lettuce

Contact: email - info@wisconsinrivers.org    phone - (608)257-2424