Biological Perspective
•Invasive Plants
–Have a competitive advantage over native flora
–Pose a serious threat to lake health and can dominate entire ecosystems
–Introduced primarily through boating
http://images.harc.edu/Sites/GalvBayInvasives/Species/Photos/MYSP2_1624031.jpg
Eurasian watermilfoil
Because invasive plants have not co-evolved within the specific lake ecosystem to which they have been introduced, they are often not susceptible to competition and disease and thus have an advantage over
 native species. Once introduced, invasives can displace native plant and animal communities, degrade a lake’s recreational value, and can significantly reduce property values. Aquatic plants often travel from
 lake to lake via boat propellers and trailers, which explains why outbreaks are typically found near boat ramps. Groups like the Maine Volunteer Lake Monitoring Program and Courtesy Boat Inspection have
been very active and successful in preventing the introduction of invasive species. Maintaining vigilant supervision at boat ramps and creating public awareness are important parts of the prevention process.