The early and consistent rainfall this summer brought an unwelcome guest to Doane Lake. Identified by Associate Professor of Biology Brad Elder as "duckweed," the plant is very small by nature but grows and spreads rapidly - as you can see if you've walked by the lake recently.
Doane Lake is currently under the care of MD Aquatics out of Lincoln. The chemical we are using to treat the lake - called Sonar - is the least invasive and most environmentally friendly option.
Although not the most aggressive option, it is the best one for the wildlife that use the lake as a habitat (such as the fish and swans) and won't hurt the beneficial vegetation that grows within the lake. It's also safe for human contact.
As the chemical works, the duckweed will lose its pigmentation and turn white and die. Any grass touching the lake will do the same. This process will take about four weeks. So soon, we hope to get Doane Lake back to its known beauty.