Metaphyton Quick Links Metaphyton is a term used to describe free-floating, filamentous algae typically observed in shallow littoral areas of lakes, where it can become entangled in the stems of rooted aquatic plants (macrophytes). Metaphyton is often characterized as having the appearance of “green cotton candy.” This filamentous algae has relatively little substance, as anyone […]
Other Lake Phenomena Quick Links Other Lake Phenomena There are many factors besides water quality and invasive aquatic species that can affect lake health, and the LSM helps train volunteer citizen scientists to monitors and track a number of these. Below are brief descriptions of other types of lake health indicators and links to more information.
Other Lake Phenomena Read More »
Water Quality Certification Process Quick Links What Volunteers Do LSM volunteers are trained and certified to collect scientific water quality data of the highest integrity. Each monitor completes an initial training workshop and is recertified regularly to ensure accuracy and consistency. All monitors use a Secchi disk and view scope to measure water clarity. Some
Water Quality Certification Process Read More »
Ice-In & Ice-Out Tracking Quick Links Ice-In & Ice-Out Tracking Please help the Lake Stewards of Maine (LSM) track ice-in and ice-out dates for your lake! Submit your ice-in and ice-out dates using our online ice coverage submission form.  For more information on the designations “ice-in” and “ice-out” and how to properly identify theme, please see
Ice-In & Ice-Out Tracking Read More »
Cyanobacteria Quick Links Water clarity is the most highly valued lake attribute in Maine.1Â One likely effect of a warming climate on lakes will be an overall increase in the abundance of algae in lake water, resulting in declining clarity. As lake water warms, the conditions for algal growth are generally enhanced. Of particular concern is
Invasive Aquatic Species Certification Process Quick Links  Invasive Plant Patrol Workshops Greetings Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Patrollers! LSM provided training and informational sessions in an online format in 2020 due to the CoViD-19 outbreak. Since then we have been improving the format and offering of our certifications. In-person AIS workshops began again in 2022.
AIS Certification Process Read More »
Maine’s Early Detection System Quick Links Case studies of infestations throughout the US indicate that once invasive plants become well established in a lake, stream or pond, they are nearly impossible to eradicate. A comprehensive, ongoing effort to prevent the introduction of aquatic invaders to Maine waters, through public education and Courtesy Boat Inspections is, and
Maine’s Early Detection System Read More »
As awareness of this threat to Maine waters has emerged across the state, Mainers have taken swift and decisive action. In 2000, the State of Maine passed legislation that outlaws the sale, propagation, or introduction to Maine waters, of eleven invasive aquatic plants. In 2001 further legislation was enacted, instituting additional regulations, programs and planning requirements…
15 Aquatic Invaders Read More »
Crayfish  Rusty Crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) – Photo courtesy of Jeff Gunderson Quick Links  Maine is now home to several non-native crayfish species. Of those species known to be from ‘away’, two are considered by state experts to pose the greatest threat to native ecosystems: rusty crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) and red swamp crayfish (Procambarus
Survey123 for Aquatic Invasive Species 2024 Recording Now Available Quick Links Survey123 is a powerful and popular tool that allows volunteers to log accurate lake data in real-time. In this webinar, Becky Schaffner of Maine DEP will teach about Survey123. Watch Here LSM’s AIS Screening forms are available in a digital format using the Survey123
Survey123 for Aquatic Invasive Species Read More »
©2025 all content, unless otherwise specified, copyright by Lake Stewards of Maine.
