GLC’s positon on aquatic herbicide use

Use of Herbicides for Management of Aquatic Plants/Organisms

Use on lakes and streams of herbicides for aquatic plant management, and all other

pesticides for that matter, pose a degree of risk for people, for fish, and for the integrity

of the aquatic ecosystem which depends on that body of water. The Geneva Lake

Conservancy advocates for environmental responsibility, and, as such, could only

support the minimal use of herbicides and pesticides, in extraordinary circumstances,

to control serious aquatic invaders (plants and organisms).

Risks and benefits of using a particular herbicide/pesticide need to be weighed against

the risks and benefits of not doing so. Additionally, risks and benefits associated with

alternative methods of controlling an invasion must be considered.

Once a determination is made that the use of a particular herbicide/pesticide would be

of benefit rather than a risk, application must be done with the proper permits and

supervision of all applicable governmental entities. All work must be conducted by an

experienced company, duly licensed to perform such applications.