A single fragment of plant on a trailer or a scoop of water in a livewell can change Glen Lake for years. If you love crystal water, easy boating, and strong property values, preventing aquatic invasive species is worth a few simple habits. In this guide, you’ll learn what to watch for, the Clean, Drain, Dry routine that actually works, where to find local help, and what to do if you suspect a problem. Let’s dive in.
Why prevention matters on Glen Lake
Prevention protects what you enjoy most about Glen Lake: clear water, good fishing, and safe swimming. Invasive plants and animals can form thick mats, foul equipment, and crowd out native life. The result can be less fun on the water and higher costs for management.
You can make a real impact with small routines. The state’s program explains how a few steps at the ramp or dock stop new arrivals before they spread. Learn the basics on the Michigan Invasive Species program.
Local stewardship groups also help monitor water quality and educate boaters. Follow updates and volunteer opportunities with the Glen Lake Association.
Species to watch in inland Michigan lakes
You may not see these in Glen Lake today. Still, knowing the signs helps you report early and avoid moving them between waterbodies.
Eurasian watermilfoil
Look for fine, feathery leaves in whorls around the stem and dense surface mats. These mats can snag props and shade out native plants. Learn more through the Michigan Invasive Species program.
Curly-leaf pondweed
Leaves have wavy, serrated edges and appear early each spring. It can form dense beds, then die back mid-summer, leaving behind turions that regrow. For homeowner-friendly guidance, visit Michigan Sea Grant.
Starry stonewort
This algae-like invader forms heavy, gelatinous mats. The giveaway is tiny, star-shaped bulbils on the threads. Early detection helps because management is challenging. See statewide context at the Michigan Invasive Species program.
Zebra and quagga mussels
Small, D-shaped shells attach to docks, rocks, and hulls. They can cut bare feet, clog intakes, and change food webs. Prevention is the best defense. Learn more on the Michigan Invasive Species program.
Spiny water flea
This tiny zooplankton has a long barbed tail that can foul fishing lines and disrupt the food chain. Drying and rinsing gear helps prevent spread. Get general best practices from Michigan Sea Grant.
Rusty crayfish
Often larger and more aggressive than natives, they reduce vegetation and disturb fish habitat. Never release bait or aquarium species. Read statewide prevention basics via the Michigan Invasive Species program.
Shoreline plants: phragmites and purple loosestrife
These invasive plants change wetland structure and reduce access. If you spot tall reed stands or purple spires along shore, document and report. For shoreline stewardship tips, visit the Leelanau Conservancy.
The Clean, Drain, Dry routine
Small, consistent actions keep invasives out. Build these into every outing.
Before you leave the lake
- Inspect and remove. Check hull, prop, trailer, anchor, ropes, livewells, bilge, and gear. Remove all plants, animals, and mud and place them in the trash.
- Drain water. Empty bilge, livewells, and bait containers on land before you travel.
- Never release bait. Buy locally each trip and dispose of unused bait properly.
- Dry your gear. Tackle boxes, nets, boots, and waders should be drained and dried.
- Review state guidance. See Clean, Drain, Dry steps on the Michigan Invasive Species program.
Before you launch elsewhere
- Rinse or wash your boat. Use a high-pressure rinse, ideally hot water, at a certified wash station or marina when you move between waterbodies.
- Manual rinse if needed. If a wash is not available, a thorough inspection and rinse is the minimum.
- Confirm local rules. For launches within park boundaries, check Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore guidance.
For docks, lifts, and shoreline access
- Inspect hardware when installing or removing docks and lifts. Look for mussels or plant fragments.
- Clean items before transport. Never move dock sections or lifts between lakes without washing.
- Keep a native buffer. Natural shoreline plants improve resilience. See local guidance from the Leelanau Conservancy.
Pack a simple boat clean kit
- Stiff brush and scraper for debris
- Bucket, towels, and gloves
- Zip-top bags or containers for specimens and trash
- Phone or camera for photos
- Small portable pump or siphon to drain water
- Disinfection wipes for hard-to-reach spots
Local resources near Glen Arbor
- Glen Lake Association. Local monitoring, boater education, and volunteer opportunities. Check updates with the Glen Lake Association.
- State rules and prevention. Learn current regulations, prohibited species, and Clean, Drain, Dry guidance at the Michigan Invasive Species program.
- Permits and treatment. Review aquatic nuisance control and permitting at Michigan EGLE.
- Homeowner and boater guides. Explore practical how-tos with Michigan Sea Grant.
- Park launches. For any access within the National Lakeshore, review regulations at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
- Reporting platforms. Submit sightings through iMapInvasives or iNaturalist.
- Shoreline stewardship. Learn about buffers, native plants, and restoration via the Leelanau Conservancy.
If you suspect an invasive species
- Take clear photos. Get close-ups and wider shots that show context. Note the exact location.
- Collect a small sample if safe. Place it in a sealed container. Do not return it to the water.
- Avoid spread. Do not move the specimen to other waterbodies.
- Report quickly. Submit your sighting to iMapInvasives or iNaturalist, and notify local partners such as the Glen Lake Association. Early reporting improves response.
Management and permits
Some species can be hand-pulled or raked in small areas, but others fragment and spread if handled incorrectly. Herbicide treatments, benthic barriers, and diver-assisted removal may be options, yet they often require permits and coordination.
Before any control action, check current rules and permitting with Michigan EGLE and review statewide guidance on the Michigan Invasive Species program. Community-scale plans through your lake association often work best.
Seasonal tips for the Glen Lake watershed
- Peak risk is spring through early fall when boat traffic is highest. Build cleaning into your launch routine.
- Watch movement within the watershed. Boats, docks, and gear moved between Glen Lake and the Crystal River can transfer species.
- Coordinate with neighbors. Shared norms for cleaning and reporting increase your impact.
Be part of the solution
Keeping invasives out of Glen Lake is simple when you make Clean, Drain, Dry a habit and report anything unusual right away. Your choices protect the water you love and preserve the lifestyle that makes this place special.
Planning a purchase or sale on Glen Lake and want shoreline stewardship tips as part of your move? Reach out to Theodoran Realty for local guidance on lake living, docks, and due diligence that protects your investment and the lake.
FAQs
How long should I dry my boat and gear between lakes?
- Drying time varies by temperature and humidity. When in doubt, use a certified wash station and follow guidance on the Michigan Invasive Species program.
Are there fines in Michigan for moving invasive species on a boat or trailer?
- Michigan enforces transport rules for listed species. Penalties may apply for illegal transport or possession. Review the latest regulations on the Michigan Invasive Species program.
What should I do first if I think I found an invasive plant on my shoreline?
- Photograph it, collect a small sample if safe, and report through iMapInvasives or iNaturalist. You can also notify the Glen Lake Association.
Do I need a permit to treat aquatic plants near my dock?
- Many chemical treatments and some physical methods require permits. Check current permitting with Michigan EGLE before any treatment.
Who typically pays for invasive species control on a lake?
- Funding often comes from lake associations, state or local grants, special assessments, and private contributions. Coordinated plans usually provide the best value and results.
