Invasive Species
The Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC) has this useful Identification Guide for AIS.
Watercraft Inspection Program and Watercraft Decontamination Program
The MN DNR manages the Watercraft Inspection Program that inspects our boats at the ramp and provides education to people entering the lake regarding the threat of aquatic invasive species (AIS). They also have launched a Watercraft Decontamination Program, which uses portable, self contained, high pressure, high heat wash units that allows them to decontaminate watercraft at the public water access points without allowing any of the wash water to run off. Use the links below to learn about these programs and to see where there will be a portable unit near you on any given date!
photo courtesy of MN DNR
Starry Stonewort
Starry stonewort was discovered on Middle Cullen Lake in the spring of 2024. It has not yet been detected in Lake Hubert, though we are monitoring for it with help from volunteers. We consider this to be or urgent importance, and we encourage diligence in cleaning, draining and decontaminating any watercraft that has been in any lake other than Lake Hubert.
Curly Leaf Pondweed
The Lake Hubert Conservation Association treated Curly Leaf Pondweed in May of 2021, and again in the spring of 2024. An EPA approved endothall-based herbicide was used for these treatments after obtaining a permit from the DNR.
A delineation survey in the spring of 2025 revealed regrowth of this AIS in the northeast corner of the lake and in the southeast part of Sunset Bay. We will apply for a permit to treat these areas in the spring of 2026.
Curly Leaf Pondweed is an invasive water plant which, if left untreated, can become a problem in our lake. It will likely be treated every 3-5 years in the future.
Zebra Mussels
Photo credit: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us
Zebra mussels were first identified in Lake Hubert in 2015. There may be evidence that zebra mussel populations stabilize and possibly decrease after several years. There is no treatment, but there is much research ongoing at the U of M, and once a treatment is available, we hope to use our saved funds to get rid of this pest!
photo courtesy of MN DNR
Spiny Waterflea
photo credit Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC)
Spiny waterflea was introduced to the Great Lakes in the 1980’s from Europe and Asia by cargo ships. It has now been found in some northern Minnesota lakes, including Lake Mille Lacs. It is a tiny predatory zooplankton that feeds on micronutrients in the lake. It is gelatenous and gums up fishing lines. It can be transferred from other lakes by any container of contaminated water, including bait buckets and ballasts. Again, be diligent about transferring any water into our lake, and cleaning, draining and drying all watercraft before bringing it to Lake Hubert from other bodies of water. We are monitoring for it, and have not found any evidence of it in Lake Hubert to date. Thanks to all of the volunteers who are helping to look for this invasive species.