Project Summary:

The major objective of this study is to develop a tool to support resource managers responsible for mitigating the effects of aquatic invasive species in northern New England lakes. This project will result in a protocol for the identification of characteristics in a lake environment that provide optimal habitat for an aquatic invasive species known as variable milfoil (Myriophyllum heterophyllum).

More specifically, a technological protocol that integrates hydroacoustic and water-quality data collection and analysis will be developed for documenting the distribution of variable milfoil, and its associated habitat characteristics, in northern New England lakes. The study will also determine optimal aquatic habitat characteristics for milfoil establishment and growth in northern New England lake environments and create a GIS-based information system to predict and monitor areas susceptible to infestation with variable milfoil.