DNR: Bear Lake In Carlton Co. Infested With Watermilfoil

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – The presence of Eurasian watermilfoil has been confirmed in a small lake in northern Minnesota, and boaters who venture into those waters are asked to be extra careful when cleaning their watercraft.

The Department of Natural Resources says the invasive plant was found in Bear Lake near Barnum in Carlton County.

The plant can form dense mats of vegetation, making it difficult for native plants to thrive and for boaters to get around. And getting rid of the plant is a headache, as even a small broken-off piece of vegetation can start a new plant.

The DNR says Bear Lake will now be designated as infested.

Locals interested in managing the invasive plant can either pull it out by hand or get a permit for large-scale removal or professional herbicide application.

For more information on watermilfoil and watermilfoil removal, click here.