A diver handing off a small sprig of curly-leaf pondweed to a surface supporter.

7 Lakes Alliance leads the charge in preventing, detecting, and managing invasive aquatic species in the Belgrade Lakes watershed. Our robust Invasive Aquatics Program works closely with the Department of Environmental Protection and all five lake associations to minimize the impact of invasive species and ensure our waters remain healthy and enjoyable for both people and wildlife for years to come.

Our program is built on four foundational pillars that address every aspect of invasive aquatic species management:

1. Prevention — Courtesy Boat Inspections that stop invasive species before they enter or leave our waters.

2. Education — Programming for all ages focused on aquatic plant identification, survey methods, and the threats invasive species pose.

3. Early Detection — Community-supported monitoring through Invasive Plant Paddles and Adopt-A-Shoreline surveys.

4. Remediation — Targeted management and removal of infestations.

To learn more about 2025 program prevention, education, early detection and remediation efforts and to view future plans, click the button below to read the full report.