FAIRMONT — The Fairmont Lakes Management Committee is planning for next year’s curly leaf pondweed control, including mechanical harvesting and possible chemical treatment. Water Resources Coordinator Hannah Neusch says the city will need an aquatic vegetation survey before applying for permits to manage the invasive weed. The survey could cost around five-thousand dollars, and the city may pursue a state grant to help cover the expense. The city spent 174-thousand dollars on mechanical harvesting this summer, but committee members questioned how much visible improvement it produced. They discussed focusing future harvesting on smaller areas near docks, piers and boat landings, as well as exploring volunteer hand-pulling efforts and chemical treatment. The committee also discussed whether to renew its harvesting contract, continue the popular curbside and dockside weed pickup service, and review water quality testing to avoid duplicating work already done by other agencies. No final decisions were made on the proposed management options.
