We are pleased to share that on August 31, a small portion of Belgrade Stream will be treated with a low-risk herbicide to reduce invasive variable-leaf milfoil, lower the risk of its spread into Long Pond, and improve ecological conditions below Wings Mills Dam.
While the treatment area is small, this marks an important first step in a much larger effort.
Important First Step
Belgrade Stream is home to the most extensive infestation of variable-leaf milfoil in Maine. Addressing an infestation of this scale will not happen in a single season.The treatment represents the beginning of a multi-year restoration project aimed at reducing invasive milfoil and giving native plants and wildlife the opportunity to recover.
Our goal is to restore a healthier and more diverse plant community, improve habitat and water quality, protect recreational opportunities, and preserve the ecological and economic value of Belgrade Stream and the surrounding watershed.
Guidelines for Property Owners
Property owners within 1,000 feet of the treatment area will receive a letter from the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (Maine DEP) with information about the treatment. Please follow the water-use guidance provided by Maine DEP, including:
- Hydroponic, greenhouse, and nursery irrigation: Do not use water from the treatment area for these purposes until contacting Maine DEP’s Invasive Aquatic Species Program (IASP) to confirm that the herbicide has dissipated.
- Residential and non-agricultural irrigation: Do not use water from the treatment area for irrigation—including lawns, gardens, landscaping, golf courses, and commercial or industrial properties—for three days following treatment.
- Swimming: There is no required swimming restriction for florpyrauxifen-benzyl. However, as an added precaution, IASP advises people not to swim within the treated area on the day of treatment.
This treatment will not solve Belgrade Stream’s milfoil problem overnight. But after decades of watching this infestation spread, August 31 represents something important: a start. A start toward restoring native habitat. A start toward reducing the source of milfoil spreading downstream. And, we hope, the start of a healthier future for Belgrade Stream.
Are you interested in helping restore the Belgrade Stream? Please consider donating to 7 Lakes Alliance.
To stay in the loop with Belgrade Stream community news, please visit Friends of Belgrade Stream.
Sharon Mann
Invasive Aquatics Director
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