Save The Chain!! Eurasian Watermilfoil Grant Awards and Upcoming Event
Eurasian Watermilfoil
Grant Awards & Upcoming Event to Protect Our Waters
The following press release has gone out to local media!
The Manitowish Waters Chain of Lakes has long been a cherished gem of the Northwoods, offering pristine waters, rich biodiversity, and unforgettable memories for generations of lake lovers. We are facing a serious ecological threat with the rapid spread of Eurasian Watermilfoil (EWM). First confirmed in 2023 in the Lower Trout River and Manitowish Lake, what began as a few dozen plants and three small patches has now expanded to over 14-acres across six lakes in just one year. While divers and surveyors have worked tirelessly to remove EWM from most affected areas, the infestation in the Lower Trout River and Manitowish Lake has grown expansively. SAVE THE CHAIN is a community-wide fundraiser dedicated to securing the necessary funds to manage this invasive species and protect the long-term health of the Manitowish Chain. Now is the time for action—local support is critical in preserving these treasured waters for future generations.
Grant Awards: Investing in Our Future
Today, we are excited to share the latest developments in our ongoing efforts to protect and preserve these beloved waters. We are thrilled to announce that four significant grants totaling $40,000 in WDNR funding have been awarded to support critical aquatic plant studies and the development of a Eurasian Watermilfoil (EWM) management plan.
These grants allow us to continue monitoring aquatic vegetation on a rotating basis across the entire chain, ensuring up-to-date data on lake health. Additionally, they will fund the development of an EWM management plan—an essential step in securing future WDNR funding for control efforts. This process will include full-lake EWM surveys, stakeholder engagement, plan development and public review.
Upcoming EWM Community Informational Event: Learn More and Get Involved!!
Thursday, April 17 @ 6 PM – Manitowish Waters Community Center.
The Manitowish Waters Lakes Association, North Lakeland Discovery Center, and Manitowish Chain EWM Committee behind Save the Chain will present the latest findings on EWM spread between 2023 and 2024, discuss plans for 2025, and answer questions from the community.
Why Your Support Matters
Protecting the Manitowish Chain of Lakes is not just the responsibility of the state or town—it’s up to all of us. Whether you fish, boat, ski, paddle, or simply enjoy the tranquility of these waters, we need your help to ensure they remain healthy for generations to come.
Every dollar makes a difference. Your donations will not only directly support conservation efforts but will also be leveraged to apply for additional WDNR funding, which could cover up to 75% of total project costs. We are committed to using these funds wisely, prioritizing science-based management and remediation strategies, and incorporating public input every step of the way.
Regardless of where you stand on specific lake management approaches, we all share a common goal: preserving the integrity of the Manitowish Chain of Lakes. Now is the time to step up and be part of the solution.
Donate today. Protect tomorrow. Visit https://mwlakes.com/save-the-chain/ to contribute and help safeguard our waters.
For more information, contact the Manitowish Waters Lakes Association at [email protected].
Together, we can SAVE THE CHAIN.