Try to see the shoreline as more than just "weeds". The aquatic zone is a vital part of the shoreland buffer. Emergent vegetation helps purify the lake by removing contaminants and calming the water, which
allows suspended soil particles to settle to the lake bottom. They provide shelter and spawning areas for fish and other wildlife and add oxygen back into the
water.
If submerged aquatic plants are interfering with swimming, clear by
hand only what is needed to provide a small swimming area. Leave other submerged plants in place. Any chemical treatment of aquatic plants or the removal of emergent plants may require a permit from the DNR.
Learn to identify aquatic invasive species, such as Curlyleaf pondweed and Eurasian
watermilfoil, and report any suspect plants to the DNR. These invasive species can
replace native plants that are vital to the lake ecosystem, and they create recreational
nuisances and impact water quality.
