Invasive Species – An Environmental Threat
UNWANTED INVADERS OF FARLAIN LAKE
Plant and animal species are moving around the planet, assisted by increasing globalization, climate change and other human caused factors. This movement results in plants, animals and micro-organisms occurring outside their normal “native” range, where they are known as non-native species. We see the impacts of this global movement locally, species like purple loosestrife and sea lamprey originated elsewhere and have since become commonplace in North America. The problem with non-native species lies in their ability to outcompete native species, as they lack natural predators and competitors to control their populations. When non-native species spread unchecked they become invasive, and can damage the environment, the economy and human health.
Despite being a small inland lake, Farlain Lake is not immune to the effects of invasive species. As many Farlain Lake Community Association (FLCA) members are aware, a very aggressive invasive aquatic plant, Eurasian watermilfoil , was discovered in Farlain Lake in 2012 and quickly became very prolific in portions of the lake over subsequent years. Eurasian watermilfoil’s dense growth threatened the lake’s native wildlife, hindered recreational use and reduced the aesthetic appeal in the affected area. See our Eurasian Watermilfoil story on the extensive ongoing effort to eradicate and manage this invasive plant by clicking here.
Invasive fish, plants and aquatic invertebrates also have the potential to enter the Farlain Lake area. The European Gypsy Moth – now known as the Spongy Moth – wreaked havoc on our beautiful trees in 2020-2021. A small patch of phragmites was discovered at the southwest end of Farlain Lake in 2024 and successfully removed. SSEA’s invasive species staff worked with FLCA volunteers to conduct a complete survey of the lake area and to date has not found phragmites anywhere else in the area.
Preventing the introduction of invasive species is critical. The following are ways to help protect the lake against these invaders:
Do not dump leftover bait water or aquarium contents into Farlain Lake. This water could cause the spread of invasive fish, plants and invertebrates, even if they are not visible to the naked eye.
Clean, drain and dry your boat before entering Farlain Lake – as of January 2022 it’s the law in Ontario to clean, drain and dry your boat before moving to another water body. Zebra and quagga mussels have not yet been found in Farlain Lake, but their microscopic larvae could easily enter the lake attached to unwashed boats. If they do invade Farlain Lake, zebra and quagga mussels could threaten the native mussel population, affect nutrient cycling and pose a safety hazard for swimmers.
Plant native species in your gardens, as many non-native landscaping plants have the potential to escape and become invasive. Non-native species such as Norway maple (Acer platanoides), periwinkle (Vinca minor), goutweed (Aegopodium podagraria,) yellow iris (Iris pseudacorus), and European common reed (Phragmites australis) can be visually appealing but should be avoided due to their tendency to become dominant. Luckily, there are many native alternatives that can be cultivated instead and pose no harm to Farlain Lake’s environment. Native plants are also the preferred food source for native insects and birds.
Do not transport firewood; instead buy firewood near where you will burn it. Transporting wood can result in the spread of invasive forest insects, such as emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis), that could affect the health of the Farlain Lake’s surrounding forests.
The Severn Sound Environmental Association (SSEA) has an Invasive Species Program. This program coordinates invasive species mapping, monitoring and control programs in the Severn Sound watershed (including Farlain Lake). If invasive species are found, the sightings can be reported to SSEA by calling 705-527-5166; a staff member will confirm the identification and file a report. More information about invasive species and how to help prevent their spread can be found on the SSEA website: www.severnsound.ca.
Additional Information
Province of Ontario Invasive Species Act sets out regulations to prevent and control the spread of invasive species in Ontario.
FOCA (Federation of Cottage Associations in Ontario) web site provides extensive information, including its Underwater Plants Guide and A Shoreline Owners Guide to Invasive Species.
The Invasive Species Centre Canada also offers extensive information, education programs and action plans to help manage the spread of invasive species.