Weed Identification

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• Milfoil forms dense mats that lie on the surface of the water, shading out native aquatic plant species and ultimately altering oxygen levels and water temperature. This in turn makes water unsuitable for fish and other wildlife. Milfoil’s leaves are feather-like, with four leaves radiating from around the stem and tiny yellow flowers produced above the water surface. Plants can become fragmented by boats and water birds and can re-sprout, causing even further spread. 

For more info on milfoil: 

• Silent Invaders video (2:31)
• Influence of Dense Growth of Eurasian Watermilfoil on Lake Water Temperature and Dissolved Oxygen
• The Invasive Species that Nobody Is Talking About (Variable Milfoil)

MA DCR Factsheets: Variable milfoil; Eurasian milfoil  

• Bladderwort continues to be a problem because it floats all over the Pond and, unlike milfoil, even infests the deeper water. It is carnivorous and captures small organisms by means of bladder-like traps. 

For more info on bladderwort, click here. 

• European or brittle naiad  is bright green, bushy and when clumped on the bottom, looks a bit like a very large green cauliflower. Its Leaves are toothed and stiff, and are easily fragmented when manipulated. 

For more info on European or brittle naiad, click here. 

• Waterweed  looks like tiny bushy milfoil and so far has been spotted only within the public access pool. 

For more info on waterweed, click here.