Invasive Species

The 2 most prevalent invasive species found on Shavers Lake are Buckthorn and Cattails.

​

Buckthorn – can be found on the shorelines and if not controlled can consume the owners property in a short period of time.   If not controlled, buckthorn will also spread and take over adjacent  properties. 

To learn more about Buckthorn control visit the DNR link below.

 

https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/terrestrialplants/woody/buckthorn/index.html

Cattails – are an invasive species and one of the primary contributors to the demise of Shavers Lake.  In the 1980’s  they almost consumed the entire lake.  Over the Years there have been resident and legislative efforts to help control the spreading of Cattails.  But a lake wide management system is the only way to control the effects cattails have on the lake.  

 

The DNR strives to preserve the plants in most of MN rather than control them.

For Shavers lake that is not an option.  To a small Eutrophic lake, Cattails are the enemy, and if not controlled, they can easily take it over, particularly in low water level years as they spread further into the lake.  Cattails preferred food source is the nutrient rich MUCK that has overtaken Shavers Lake.

 

Specific legislation was passed in  Minnesota in 2012 after lobbying efforts from Peter Davis.  Peter’s efforts allowed Shavers Lake to control the cattails and help prevent their spread.   

​

More information on the control of Cattails can be found on the Resources page.

​

​