More tactics in milfoil fight

SANDPOINT – Officials plan to recommend a multifaceted attack to combat Eurasian milfoil this summer, a departure from last year’s exclusive use of herbicides.

The Bonner County Eurasian milfoil task force wants to use diver dredging, bottom barriers, biological controls and attempt to restore native aquatic plants.

The invasive weed forms thick mats that are a problem for swimmers and boaters. It also destroys fish habitat by pushing out native plants.

The task force also agreed mapping of infestations before and after treatment methods was needed to assess results.

“You really need to use all the appropriate technologies,” said R. Michael Smart, an aquatic plant ecologist with the U.S. Army Engineers Research and Development Center.