Invasives

MLWA Invasive Plants Project
The MLWA has begun a new effort to control the spread of Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) along the shores of Mirror Lake in coordination with several partners. This extremely prolific, invasive plant is a threat to our lake ecosystem despite its attractive appearance.


The Threat Purple Loosestrife is an extremely hardy and prolific plant with no native enemies. It will crowd out native vegetation and reduce the biological diversity that sustains life for insect, amphibian, bird, fish, and mammalian wildlife. The infestations on the shores of Mirror Lake act as a "nursery" of seeds which can spread Purple Loosestrife to neighboring bodies of water such as Lake Placid and the Chubb River. The Purple Loosestrife threat in more detail.
The Project consists of two parts: Educate the shoreline landowners and the general public about the threat, how to recognize and report Purple Loosestrife, and about alternative non-invasive ornamental plants. Contain and/or eradicate the plant by assisting in: the inventorying and mapping of infestations, asking affected landowners for permission to remove vegetation, and the physical removal of plants.
Our Partners in this effort include: Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program Hilary Oles, Program Coordinator c/o Adirondack Nature Conservancy Keene Valley, NY 12943 518 576-2082 x 131