Invasive Plant Spreading Across Southern Maine Lakes

There’s a new lake invader in town, and it’s got a name that sounds more like a cartoon character than a threat to Maine’s waterways...swollen bladderwort.

According to WGME 13, this invasive aquatic plant was first spotted in a Maine lake about three years ago, and now it’s been found in eight lakes across southern and western Maine, including Little Ossipee Lake in Waterboro.

So, what’s the big deal? Well, according to Bruce Church, who heads up Invasive Aquatic Plants at Little Ossipee, it can form thick, tangled mats that smother native plant life and mess with water quality. It’s not dangerous to humans, but if you’re out boating or trying to enjoy a summer swim, this stuff can be a real pain.

Bruce puts it simply to WGME 13: “It’s a plant you really don’t want on your lake.”

The problem? It spreads easily, clinging to boats, kayaks, fishing gear and trailers. That’s why local groups are urging everyone to make sure their gear is clean, drained, and dry before heading from one body of water to another.

In Waterboro, WGME explained, there’s even a courtesy boat inspection program. Folks like Isabella Boissonnault are checking trailers, propellers, live wells, anchors and everything in between to stop the spread.

She says it’s about more than just the summer fun. “We drink this water, we fish from it, we enjoy it,” Isabella said. “We’ve got to protect it now so future generations can enjoy it too.”

The Maine DEP is also involved, working to prevent and control the spread of swollen bladderwort statewide. And if you want to help, the Little Ossipee Lake Association is hosting a golf fundraiser this Saturday at Salmon Falls Country Club — all to raise money for research and removal efforts.

So if you love our lakes and let’s be honest, who in Maine doesn’t, give your boat a check before you launch, and maybe grab those golf clubs this weekend for a good cause.