Biologists in Maine and New Hampshire have confirmed the discovery of the invasive plant European naiad along the New Hampshire and Maine boarder in the Salmon Falls River, approximately 30 miles from Watchic Lake.
The Salmon Falls River runs for about 40 miles along the border and is a popular recreational site. Anyone using the river for boating or fishing should very aggressively check their gear and boats before bringing them into any lake or river especially Watchic Lake.
Read the full article below and always contact us if you have questions or concerns about plant life in Watchic Lake
Portland Press Herald. October 13, 2015
Invasive European naiad plant found at Maine, New Hampshire border, biologists say
The plant, which is able to overtake native lake habitats, was found in the Salmon Falls River.
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
These images from Maine.gov, attributed to Don Cameron of the Maine Natural Areas Program and the USDA, show the European naiad plant and seeds. Maine.gov
ACTON – Biologists in Maine and New Hampshire say they have confirmed discovery of an invasive plant in a body of water on the border of the two states.
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection says the species is European naiad and was found in the Salmon Falls River. The river has shorelines in Lebanon and Acton, Maine, and Milton, New Hampshire.
The biologists say the plant is able to overtake native lake habitats. It grows from a seed into 7-foot-long plants, and a 1-acre infestation can generate tens of millions of seeds per season.
Environmental managers from the two states have distributed warning signs to be posted on boat ramps to urge boaters to inspect and remove plant debris before and after using the area where the plant is growing.