Random Lake, Hartford, WI. Photo by Marissa Kneer.
Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum; EWM) is an invasive aquatic plant that can negatively impact lake shorelines by reducing boat mobility and forming floating mats of plant material. One way to remove EWM from lakes is by applying an herbicide called 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) to the lake. The effectiveness of the treatment is dependent on 1) the concentration applied to the lake and 2) how long EWM is exposed to 2,4-D. However, the factors that control how long 2,4-D stays in a lake are not well understood. We are working to understand exactly what factors control 2,4-D's life in lakes.
We are currently investigating the way 2,4-D is broken down by bacteria and the sun (see conceptual model to the right). Our experiments will include bench top experiments, microsoms, and a field survey to determine how sunlight and bacteria work together to break down 2,4-D. Be sure to check out my blog for the latest information about this research!