Washington County Aquatic Invasive Species News

Transcription

1 2012 AIS Strategic Plan Advisory Committee Aquatic Invasive Species News John Jung, Chair Pike Lake PRD Planning & Parks Department Volume 1 - Issue #1 es: e Dat Waters h t e Sav, Clean 3 Boats, 201 Clean y 22 & 28 pm 0 Ma m-8:010) p 0 3 :. 6 ee pg (s Spring /Summer 2013 Sa Nat ve the Res ive tor S Dat atio horel e: in Ju n 12: ly 28 Work e 30p, 20 sho p (see m-4: 13 pg. 30p m 14) Ardell Zimmer, Vice Chair Amy Belle Lake POA Mark Rodenkirch, Green Lake POA Dave Berganini, Silver Lake PRD Ken Hebbe, Lake Five POA Bill Hilgendorf, Friess Lake POA Dick Baumann, Bark Lake POA Through awareness, education and involvement we can win the battle against Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS). In This Issue Learn More About... S AIS Strategic Plan S Identification of AIS Plants & Animals S How to Get Involved S Clean Boats, Clean Waters - May 22nd & 28th S Citizen Lake Monitoring Network S Native Shoreline Restoration Workshop - July 28th Aquatic Invasive Species Strategic Plan n February 12, 2013, the Board of Supervisors adopted an aquatic invasive species (AIS) strategic plan to guide the combat against AIS in. The plan gives the County 5 goals and 68 planned actions for battling AIS a key step in protecting our County s invaluable aquatic natural resources. O Goals of the Aquatic Invasive Species Strategic Plan: 1. Educate residents and visitors of the County about the existence and impacts of AIS. 2. Prevent the spread of AIS to waterbodies that are currently uninfested, keep existing AIS populations in check and eradicate them if possible. 3. Monitor and maintain an inventory of existing AIS populations. 4. Control the spread of AIS populations. 5. Sustain the implementation of the AIS Strategic Plan. The plan describes: What aquatic invasive species (AIS) are currently living in our County s waterbodies Where AIS are located in our waterbodies How AIS are impacting our lake ecosystems What AIS threaten to enter our County s waters What steps you can take to prevent the spread of AIS How you can identify AIS How you can report a new AIS infestation How you can get involved through volunteer opportunities to control AIS Copies of the Aquatic Invasive Species Strategic Plan and Executive Summary are available at: Page 1 Planning & Parks Department 333 E. Washington St., Suite 2300 West Bend, WI or on-line at:

2 What You Should Know About Aquatic Invasive Species in An invasive species is a non-native species whose introduction has or is likely to cause economic, recreational, or environmental harm to human, animal, or plant health. Invasive species threaten the diversity, abundance, and stability of native plants and animals in a particular ecosystem. In their native environments, there are typically predators, parasites, pathogens, and competitors that keep these invasive species in check. However, when they are transported to a new environment, the natural checks are usually left behind. This gives invasive plants and animals an advantage to out-compete and displace the native species and their dominance reduces species diversity forever changing the ecosystem. Numerous aquatic invasive species (AIS) can currently be found in various Washington County waterbodies and many more are threatening to enter the County. AIS commonly found in include: Eurasian watermilfoil, Curly-leaf pondweed, Zebra mussels, Rusty crayfish, Purple loosestrife, Chinese and Banded mystery snails, and Red swamp crayfish. Examples of AIS threatening to enter our County s waterbodies include: Yellow floating heart, Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus (VHS), Spiny and Fishhook waterfleas, Quagga mussels, Round gobies, and Asian carp (Bighead and Silver). Knowing what to look for and how to identify AIS can help prevent their spread. COMMON AIS SPECIES IN WASHINGTON COUNTY Eurasian Watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) Identifying Characteristics: Eurasian watermilfoil has featherlike leaves that lay flat along its stem when pulled out of the water. There are usually leaflets per leaf, which are arranged in whorls (circles) of three to five around the stem. Native milfoils typically have 7-11 leaflets. It can grow in depths of 1-20 feet. The stems of Eurasian watermilfoil tend to be limp, and the upper part of the plant usually resembles a red or pinkish color, although some native species of watermilfoils also have pink stems. Impacts: Eurasian watermilfoil forms thick vegetative mats that spread horizontally across a lake s surface, and intertwines Eurasian Watermilfoil with native vegetation. It shades out native vegetation used by fish, waterfowl and other animals. It also inhibits recreational uses like fishing, boating, and swimming, and can lead to degraded water quality and algae blooms. Page 2 Curly-leaf Pondweed Page 3 Purple Loosestrife Curly-leaf Pondweed (Potamogeton crispus) Identifying Characteristics: Curly-leaf pondweed can be recognized by its stiff reddish-green lasagna-like looking leaves. They are about three inches long, finely toothed along the edge, and alternate along the stem. The stem of the plant is flat and reddish-brown. Like Eurasian watermilfoil, Curly-leaf pondweed can grow in a variety of water depths, usually up to 15 feet. Impacts: Because Curly-leaf pondweed can grow so early, it can outcompete native plants in the spring. It forms thick mats across the surface, interfering with aquatic recreation. In the summer when Curly-leaf pondweed dies off, the decaying plants release nutrients, such as phosphorus, which cause severe algae blooms and unpleasant smells along shorelines. Plant die-offs also result in a loss of dissolved oxygen, an essential component for all aquatic life forms. Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) Identifying Characteristics: Purple loosestrife is a three to nine foot semi-woody plant that has a square stem with smooth, opposite leaves. It has showy purple to pink flowers with five to six petals that are formed into numerous long spikes that bloom from July to September. It also has a large woody taproot with fibrous rhizomes that form a dense underground mat. Its optimal habitat includes marshes, stream and lake edges, and wet prairies. Impacts: Purple loosestrife grows faster and taller than most native wetland plants. Once established on a lakeshore or adjacent wetland, it displaces native plants and reduces wildlife habitat. As native vegetation is displaced, rare plants are often the first to disappear. Thick stands of purple loosestrife can choke out recreational waterways, and eventually overrun large acres of wetlands. This can result in a loss of open water habitat.

3 Zebra Mussel ssits flat on vertical side striangular in shape scolor patterns vary Zebra Mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) Identifying Characteristics: Zebra mussels look like a small D-shaped clam, only reaching a maximum of two inches in length (although most are smaller than an inch). They have yellowish-brown alternating light and dark stripes, hence their name. They are usually found growing in large clusters of individuals in shallow, algae-rich water. Impacts: Zebra mussels are filter feeders and can filter up to one liter of water per day. They remove plankton from the water, which is an essential food source for young fish, native mussels, and other aquatic organisms. Filtered water also leads to clearer water. This can affect light penetration which can lead to more aquatic plant growth in deeper water. Thicker plant growth can cause a problem for anglers and boaters. Zebra mussels also clog water intake pipes for industrial facilities and boat engines. They attach to piers, boat lifts and boats, causing damage and costly repair. They also attach to the shells of native mussels in great masses, eventually smothering them. Their sharp shells wash up on shore, and can cut the feet of beach walkers and swimmers. Rusty Crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) Identifying Characteristics: Adult Rusty crayfish are generally three to five inches long (excluding claws). They are identified by their rust-colored spot on each side of their Rusty Crayfish body. Their claws are typically larger and smoother than many other native crayfish, and have black bands on the tips. Impacts: Adult Rusty crayfish eat about four times the amount of food a native crayfish eats. It feeds on small fish, insects, fish eggs, and native crayfish eggs. They also feed on aquatic vegetation, damaging habitat for fish spawning, cover and food. If the Rusty crayfish are eating Eurasian watermilfoil, they are making the problem worse by spreading fragments in the water. They are also more aggressive than native crayfish, eventually displacing them from an area. Page 4 Red Swamp Crayfish Chinese and Banded Mystery Snail (Cipangopaludina chenesis) Chinese (top) - Banded Mystery Snail (bottom) Page 5 Red Swamp Crayfish (Procambarus clarkia) Identifying Characteristics: Red swamp crayfish are typically dark red in color with raised bright red spots covering the body and claws. The claws and body may also be blue in color. They also have a dark wedge shaped strip on the top of the abdomen. Impacts: Red swamp crayfish out-compete native crayfish for food and habitat. They also carry a fungus plaque which is a disease that damages the muscles of native crayfish. They are extensive burrowers and can penetrate over six feet into shorelines leading to extensive erosion. Red swamp crayfish can live for over a year in their burrows without water and have been known to travel several miles over land at night or during wet weather. Chinese and Banded Mystery Snail (Cipangopaludina chenesis) Identifying Characteristics: The easiest way to identify a Chinese Mystery Snail is by its shell. It is a smooth, coneshaped, spiral-shaped shell with uniform light to dark olivegreen coloration and five to seven whorls. It grows upward about two inches in length. Banded Mystery Snails will achieve a length of inches and have reddish-brown bands circling the shell. Only Mystery Snails have an operculum (trap door) present. Impacts: Chinese Mystery Snails eat native zooplankton, filter feed on suspended matter, and compete for space with native species. They also serve as vectors for the transmission of various parasites and diseases such as flukes, which can infect humans. Unlike native snails, the Chinese Mystery Snail will not serve as a host for swimmers itch. Additionally, their shells clog water intake pipes, inhibiting the flow of water. They have a trap door called an operculum which allows them to close the opening of their shell when water conditions are unfavorable.

4 Yellow Floating Heart (Signs of Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus) AIS THREATENING WASHINGTON COUNTY Yellow Floating Heart (YFH) (Nymphoides peltata) Identifying Characteristics: It is identified by its round heart shaped leaves that are up to six inches in diameter and have sculpted edges. Many of the floating leaves are purple underneath. The flower sits on a stalk about two inches above the water and is yellow with five fringed pedals. Impacts: It develops very thick mats that cover complete water surfaces limiting sunlight and oxygen to the water below. YFH is very difficult to control; mechanical removal with equipment and lining with heavy duty, thick plastic liners is most effective. Chemical treatment has shown to be ineffective and also drastically effects other aquatic vegetation in the area. Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus (VHS) Identifying Characteristics: Fish infected with VHS may have clinical signs of bulging eyes, external and internal hemorrhaging, swollen or pale organs, or bloated abdomens. Infected fish shed the virus through their reproductive fluids and urine. The blood vessels become weak causing hemorrhaging in the internal organs, muscles and skin. The virus grows best when the water temperature is between degrees Fahrenheit. The virus can survive in water for at least 14 days. Although some infected fish may not show any signs, transporting these fish to new locations could spread the disease to unaffected waters. Impacts: Presently, there are about 45 species of fish that are known to be susceptible to VHS. Fortunately, studies have shown VHS is not a threat to people who handle or eat infected fish. The virus can potentially cause massive fish population die offs and can severely impact our billion dollar fisheries industry. Page 6 Page 7 Spiny Waterflea Fishhook Waterflea Quagga Mussel swill not stand on vertical side, topples over srounder in shape than Zebra Mussel sdark concentric rings spaler in color near hinge Spiny Waterflea (Bythotrephes longimanus) and Fishhook Waterflea (Cercopagis pengoi) Identifying Characteristics: Both species are about ¼ to ½ inch long. Spiny waterfleas are distinguished by their long tail spines, which usually have one to three barbs. Fishhook waterfleas have smaller barbs on their tails and the end of the tail has a fishhook appearance. Both species will appear as a white slimy glob on fishing line. Impacts: Spiny and fishhook waterfleas reproduce very rapidly, leading to large increased populations. They eat smaller zooplankton, including the native daphnia (native waterfleas) which are an important food source for young fish. Additionally, young fish have trouble eating these waterfleas due to their long spiny tails. Waterfleas also gather in thick globby masses on fishing line and downrigger cables, clog eyelids of fishing rods and damage a reel s drag system, all of which can prevent fish from being landed. Quagga Mussel (Dreissena bugensis) Identifying Characteristics: The adult Quagga mussels are larger than Zebra Mussels and can be up to two inches in length. The shell is more rounded than the Zebra mussel and will roll over if placed on its hinge side. The shell is a light cream color with dark concentric rings. Quagga mussels will survive in a much broader range of water temperature and depth. Impacts: Quagga mussels have much the same impacts that Zebra mussels do but to a greater extent due to their ability to survive in deeper colder water. This has caused matting of filamentous algae reducing fish habitat and environmental concerns when mats of algae drift ashore.

5 (Butomus umbellatus) Malcolm Storey, 2002, (Lagarosiphon major) (Trapa natans) Bureau of Watershed Management Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Box 7921 Madison, WI (Lythrum salicaria) (Egeria densa) (Myriophyllum aquaticum) (Cabomba caroliniana) (Potamogeton crispus) (Hydrilla verticillata) (Najas minor) (Didymosphenia geminata) (Myriophyllum spicatum) (Hydrocharis morsus-ranae) J R Crellin 2008 (Nymphoides peltata) Picture Source: Dutch Information Centre on Charophytes, Leiden (Nitellopsis obtusa) The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources provides equal opportunity in its employment, programs, services, and functions under an Affirmative Action Plan. If you have any questions, please write to Equal Opportunity Office, Department of Interior, Washington, D.C This publication is available in alternative format (large print, Braille, audio tape, etc.) upon request. Please call (608) Design and Layout by Bonnie Reichert Round Goby Bighead Carp Silver Carp Round Goby (Neogobius melanostomus) Identifying Characteristics: The Round goby is bottom dwelling, has a large head, and can grow to ten inches, more commonly four to six inches. They have a fused suction cup like pelvic fin, and the front dorsal fin has a large dark spot. Impacts: Round gobies take over the prime spawning sites and habitat of native sculpins and log perch. Gobies will consume the eggs of any species, raiding nests temporarily vacated by bass or other panfish and they will also consume the eggs of broadcast spawners. Asian Carp, Bighead (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis) and Silver (H. molitrix) Identifying Characteristics: Both species have low set eyes with large upturned mouths and no barbells. Their heads have no scales, while the scales on their bodies are very small. Silver carp are primarily silver in color, while the Bighead carp have dark blotches along the top of its body. Impacts: Because they are such efficient feeders, they drastically diminish the base food for native fish, thus disrupting the entire food chain. Asian carp are also renowned for leaping out of the water when disturbed by watercraft, potentially injuring boaters. Wisconsin has several laws to prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species and VHS. Fines can exceed $2,000! Increasing community awareness through education is a vital component in controlling the spread of AIS. This involves knowing the benefits of native habitats and utilizing native plants for landscaping and water gardens. Before purchasing landscaping plants, you should become familiar with prohibited and native species by visiting the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) Chapter NR40 ( - search invasive ). It s the Law in Wisconsin! How to Prevent the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species INSPECT boats, trailers, and equipment. REMOVE all aquatic plants, animals, and mud before entering or leaving a boat launch. Many invasive species spread to other waterbodies by hitching a ride on boats, trailers, and equipment. DRAIN all water from your boat, motor, bilge, live wells, bait containers and all equipment before leaving the water access. Many invasive species can be small and hard to detect or microscopic such as zebra and quagga mussel larvae. Regulated Aquatic Invasive Plants in WI Please report any prohibited species (as indicated by the red frame box) to the WDNR. Report by to: Invasive.Species@wi.gov or by phone at: (608) OR to find out more information, for information on reporting restricted species and whom to contact go to: Water chestnut Fanwort Didymo or rock snot (alga) Starry stonewort (alga) Restricted Species Prohibited Species For more information about NR 40 (WI s Invasive Species Rule), Restricted, or Prohibited species please visit: NEVER MOVE plants or live fish away from a waterbody. All livewells/containers holding fish must be drained of any lake water and if needed, any fish should be kept on ice. Minnows obtained from a Wisconsin licensed bait dealer can be transported if no lake or river water, or fish have been added to the container. DISPOSE of unwanted bait and other aquatic plants and animals in the trash. Likewise, any aquatic plants or animals collected, or bought from a pet store should never be released into the wild. Flowering rush Australian swamp stonecrop (Crassula helmsii) African elodea DNR PUB-WT Purple loosestrife Brazilian waterweed Parrot feather Curly-leaf pondweed Hydrilla Brittle waternymph Eurasian water milfoil European frog-bit Yellow floating heart Page 8 Page 9

6 Ways You Can Get Involved Throughout the state of Wisconsin as well as the United States, Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) are recognized as a serious threat to our water resources. The lakes and rivers that are in Washington County have to be under a watchful eye due to the close proximity to Lake Michigan. The Great Lakes presently contain over 180 nonnative species that have the potential of spreading inland and infesting Washington County waterbodies. Volunteers are needed now more than ever to help preserve and protect s waterbodies. The Clean Boats, Clean Waters (CBCW) program is an opportunity for volunteers to help stop the spread of AIS across the state. Through CBCW, inspectors are trained to organize and conduct watercraft inspections and educate boaters at boat landings. Volunteer Opportunities for You! Clean Boats, Clean Waters S The intention of this program is to have trained volunteers at as many boat landings as possible throughout the high use periods of summer and early fall. Volunteers at the landings will be informing and assisting boaters regarding proper AIS cleaning procedures for boats, trailers, bilge water, motors and bait buckets. Legally, all must be clean before entering a roadway. Citizen Lake Monitoring Network (CLMN) S CLMN volunteers conduct point plant surveys and map known and newly found aquatic plant populations. Lake volunteers are a vital component necessary to assist AIS Coordinators with lake monitoring each season. Early identification of new infestations and quick responses are essential for successful containment and possible eradication. (continued on Page 11) Watercraft Inspections Weevil Nanophyes Ways to Get Involved... Bio-Control of Purple Loosestrife S Another area targeted is the biological-control of Purple loosestrife. This also requires a network of volunteers. There presently is a strong coordinated volunteer effort being conducted with various lake associations, school groups, and youth organizations. We are always looking to expand these efforts throughout the County and to recruit more community volunteers. Want to Get Involved? Start Here. Clean Boats, Clean Waters Trainings West Bend Town Hall Wednesday - May 22nd & Erin Town Hall Tuesday - May 28th 6:30pm - 8:00pm (both dates) Call to reserve a chair! Help Make a Difference! Page 10 Page 11

7 Aquatic Invasive Species Identification and Response Guide for While prevention is the most effective approach to combatting Aquatic Invasive Species, early detection and rapid response is critical to successful eradication or control before invasive species become widespread. Monitoring and reporting locations of invasive species is also vital to preventing the spread of aquatic invaders. The Rapid Response Guide (shown below) explains what to do if you suspect a new AIS invasion. It can be downloaded from the County s website: www. co.washington.wi.us/lcd - click on AIS. Identification and Response Report Form Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) This form was developed as a guide to report potential threats of Aquatic Invasive Species. Contact information of the person discovering the threat: Name: Date: Address: City, State Zip: Phone: Check appropriate box of specimen found (Plant/Animal) and follow sampling guide. PLANT Species ANIMAL Species Collect sample Try to collect up to 5 samples Take detailed photos, include coin Take detailed photos, include coin or pencil for scale or pencil for scale Note distinctive features, like Transfer specimen to a jar filled flowers, seeds, fruit, buds, full with rubbing alcohol (except leaves, stems roots jellyfish). Location information: Lake Name (if applicable): GPS Coordinates or coordinates by other means (note source and include map): Sources include: Topo maps, Gazetteer, DNR WebViewer ( Written description of location: Examples include: County, Township, Ranges Section, ¼ Section, Note any road names, landmarks, etc Deliver sample/photos to: Paul Klein, AIS Coordinator Planning and Parks Department 333 E. Washington St., Suite 2300 West Bend, WI Phone: 262/ , cell: 920/ paul.klein@co.washington.wi.us For official use only Date received: Plant Name (Common): Plant Name (Scientific): Estimated Population of Invasive Species: Description of habitat species discovered in: A-6 AIS Identification and Response Guide: 2/15/2012 Rapid Response Form AIS Coordinator - Paul Klein Paul Klein, AIS Coordinator, is responsible for organizing and implementing Aquatic Invasive Species education and prevention activities throughout the County. This involves: Working with lake associations to coordinate efforts to control and provide a rapid response against invasive species Coordinating Clean Boats, Clean Water (CBCW) watercraft inspection activities Planning and executing training workshops Properly equipping boat landings with educational information and a means of disposal Keeping a presence at the landings through volunteer efforts Mapping lakes and wetlands Providing control and treatment strategies, and Serving as an educator and primary contact concerning identification and rapid response regarding aquatic invasives throughout the County Paul has Bachelor of Science Degrees in Field Biology and Resource Management from UW- Platteville and UW-Stevens Point. Before being hired as the County s AIS Coordinator, Paul spent the past nine years in the private sector doing natural resource conservation and water management. Paul Klein, AIS Coordinator 333 E. Washington St., Suite 2300 West Bend, WI paul.klein@co.washington.wi.us Phone: Page 12 Announcing a Native Shoreline Restoration Workshop Have you ever thought about restoring your shoreline? Maybe you re not sure how to get started or what plants might be best for your site. Learn how to incorporate a landscape plan that benefits water quality and wildlife while still maintaining your view of the water. Many people seek shoreland property for the peaceful view of the water just as many people seek wooded lots for wildlife viewing. You can experience the best of both worlds on your shoreline property. Studies show that natural shoreline can include 5-times the plant and animal diversity as an upland environment. Restoring your shoreline to a more natural state can attract wildlife, and creating a vegetative buffer along the water can reduce erosion and improve water quality. Did you know that building a home and establishing a lawn along a shoreline can result in 7-times the amount of phosphorus and 18-times the amount of sediment entering a waterbody compared to having a natural shoreline? The value of your property can also be affected by the quality of the waterbody. In one study, good water quality added as much as $200 per frontage foot to the value of shoreland property. Shoreland restoration, as the name implies, is the practice of restoring an ecologically healthy transition between land and water. Once restored to a natural state, your shoreline will require little maintenance. Native plants are superior to non-native plants because they are better suited to the specific site conditions of your shoreline. Page 13 Whether it is a simple and small shoreline restoration or large native landscape project, each site provides benefits for wildlife and water quality.

8 Please join us on Sunday, July 28, 2013 at Ackerman s Grove County Park Planning & Parks Department 333 E. Washington St., Suite 2300 PO Box 2003 West Bend, WI Phone: Fax: PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID WEST BEND WI PERMIT NO. 90 Free No Registration Learn how to S Develop a shoreline restoration plan S Select the native plants for your site and your desired appearance S Meet shoreland zoning requirements through a vegetated buffer plan and much more! Native Shoreline Restoration Workshop being held at Rain or Shine Ackerman s Grove County Park (1st shelter on left) 4875 County Highway Z West Bend, WI on Sunday, July 28, :30pm to 4:30pm Free No Registration Rain or Shine The itinerary for this workshop is still being developed, please check the following website for details: - click on Aquatic Invasive Species or call Page 14 Planning, Conservation and Parks Committee Members Michael R. Miller, Chairperson Raymond W. Heidtke, Vice-Chairperson Gerald J. Schulz, Secretary Melvin K. Ewert, County Board Supervisor Peter I. Sorce, County Board Supervisor Michael Parsons, County Board Supervisor Todd White, County Board Supervisor Ross Bishop, FSA Representative - LCC Member Planning & Parks Department Paul Mueller, Administrator Debora Sielski, Deputy Administrator Mike Kactro, Assistant Administrator for Golf / Parks Phil Gaudet, Land Resources Manager Eric Damkot, GIS Manager Paul Sebo, County Conservationist This newsletter is published periodically for residents. Viewpoints of the authors do not necessarily reflect those of the Planning, Conservation and Parks Committee or the Board of Supervisors.