State agency to help battle milfoil

SANDPOINT – The Idaho Department of Agriculture will take a more direct role in battling Eurasion milfoil in North Idaho’s Bonner County this summer.

Spokeswoman Pamela Juker said the county’s control efforts have reduced milfoil, but infestations in Pend Oreille and Priest lakes have been difficult to treat.

She said the agency is getting more involved because of the complex nature of the treatments for infestations that involve drinking water and re-infestation from upstream sources.

Milfoil usually grows in water less than 20 feet deep and can eventually reach the surface, forming a dense layer that can entangle swimmers and hinder boats. Idaho and other states have spent millions trying to eradicate it.