Exotic aquatic plants, such as milfoil and fanwort, have been a problem in New Hampshire lakes and ponds since the mid-1960s. Variable milfoil, by far the most wide-spread exotic aquatic plant in NH, was first found in Moultonborogh Bay in Lake Winnipesaukee. From there it has spread to infest more than 60 waterbodies. The program works mostly with submerged exotic aquatic plants.
Why are these plants such a problem? Native plant communities have evolved together over hundreds of years. Animal and insect grazers have become specialized to feed on these native plants. Since exotic plants are introduced from outside of the state, they have no established relationships with native fauna that would keep their growth in check. When these exotic plants grow without natural controls they encroach into and replace the habitats of native plants, disrupting the food chain, stunting fish growth and degrading wildlife habitat. Water-bodies with exotic plant infestations in New Hampshire are considered impaired for aquatic life support. Attached is a document identifying the flora specific for Pine River Pond and can be found here: Aquatic Plants_Pine River Pond
If you believe you have found invasive plants or animals, please place the specimen in a plastic bag with water and contact Cindy Pfeiffer at clpfeiffer9@gmail.com.