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Spirit Lake, Kootenai County
The Spirit Lake Eurasian Watermilfoil control program has been very successful. At the 1998 initial estimation, Spirit Lake contained 50 acres of dense milfoil. If left unchecked, it would have rendered Spirit Lake’s main boat launch unusable and severely impacted the usability, beauty, and ecology of this unique waterway. As a result of ongoing control efforts by the Spirit Lake Property Owners Association, the Noxious Weed Department of Kootenai County, and many volunteers, the Eurasian watermilfoil infestation was reduced to 10 to 15 acres of sparse plants in 2006.
In 2007, diver operated milfoil removal efforts located and removed the sparse plants remaining in the treatment area. Extensive volunteer survey and mapping efforts were able to locate only one additional isolated patch of Eurasian watermilfoil. Clearly the control efforts have been a success, but ongoing monitoring and education are needed to prevent re-infestation of Spirit Lake.
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Photos of the Spirit Lake Eurasian Watermilfoil Control Program
 Aerial view of Spirit Lake |
 Spirit Lake, Kootenai County, ID |
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Aquatic Species Found in Spirit Lake
- Aquatic Plants Native to Idaho
- Chara (plant-like algae in the genus Chara)
- Common Waterweed (Elodea canadensis)
- Fern-leaf Pondweed (Potamogeton robbinsii)
- Fragrant Waterlilly (Nymphaea odorata) (native to East N. America)
- Leafy Pondweed (Potamogeton foliosus)
- Needle Spike-rush (Eleocharis acicularis)
- Nitella (plant-like algae in the genus Nitella)
- Slender Water-nymph (Najas flexilis)
- Tapegrass (Vallisneria americana) (native to East N. America)
- Water Marigold (Megalondonta beckii)
- Idaho Fish and Game - Fish Stocking Information
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Invasive Species Watch List
Ponds, lakes and streams in this area may be at risk of invasion by the following aquatic or riparian weeds. If you think you have detected these or any other invasive weeds, contact the Kootenai County Noxious Weed Control at (208) 446-1290.
- Information about species on the Idaho Noxious Weed List
- Other invasive species to watch for