The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) has confirmed the presence of Eurasian watermilfoil, an aquatic noxious weed, in Blue Heart Springs near Box Canyon on the Snake River. ISDA’s recent investigation and sampling confirmed the presence of both Andean watermilfoil, a native species, and Eurasian watermilfoil (EWM).

“This investigation was initiated after Visit Southern Idaho expressed concern about unusual plant growth in Blue Heart Springs,” said Jeremey Varley, ISDA Noxious Weeds Section Manager. “These kinds of reports are vital and underscore the importance of the ‘See Something, Say Something’ philosophy in invasive species management.”

EWM can reduce waterflow, decrease oxygen levels in water, and impede recreation. This is not the first time the plant has been confirmed in Magic Valley.

ISDA now is making EWM eradication plans. ISDA is working with relevant state and federal agencies to ensure agency plans meet applicable permit requirements for the protection of native or sensitive species, including invertebrates, in the area. ISDA provided an update to stakeholders, including those who originally submitted reports, and state and federal agencies with oversight in the area.

The eradication plan will include mechanical removal. This involves carefully pulling plants, including all plant material and fragments. The work will be performed by ISDA staff who are trained to remove plants in such a way as to prevent further spread. Following a detailed pre-treatment survey, work will begin later this spring when the plants have new growth, which increases likelihood of full plant removal. ISDA is asking the public not to disturb the plants as doing so can further spread the plants outside of the spring area.

For more information, please visit the ISDA Invasive Species Program website at www.invasivespecies.idaho.gov.

About ISDA’s Noxious Weed Program

ISDA coordinates a statewide noxious weed management and control program. Our goal is to protect the integrity of Idaho’s natural resources from the biological degradation caused by terrestrial and aquatic invasive species. The ISDA works with many counties, stakeholders and other organizations which have jurisdiction or interests related to noxious weed mitigation.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                

March 22, 2021                                                                         

Contact: Lloyd Knight

Mobile: (208) 859-4173

Lloyd.knight@isda.idaho.gov

Photo attachment: EWM in Hayden Lake, ID. Photo credit: ISDA.