Project Case Study: Houghton Lake, Michigan

Since 2000, lake managers have been working to restore the 20,000-acre Houghton Lake, MI, to its historic condition following a severe infestation of Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum L.).

ReMetrix has contributed to every phase of the restoration project. Our company provided restoration planning assistance through lake mapping and plant assessments, and we are now helping to monitor the effects of the restoration project.

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Color Enhanced satellite image. The enhancement emphasizes the scope of the aquatic weed infestation.

Houghton Lake five months after treatment

Survey: Plant Detection

Survey: Chara Cover

Survey: Bathymetric

Data and maps from ReMetrix played a key role in obtaining state permitting for the project, and also quantifying the effects of the project. Had ReMetrix not been involved, the exact effects of the restoration would be more vaguely quantified and would be difficult to communicate in a defendable manner.

The restoration project has been highly successful. ReMetrix continues to be involved by conducting hydroacoustic, point, and diver monitoring of the lake’s vegetation structure and diversity on an annual basis.

To learn more details about this project, contact the Houghton Lake Improvement Board.

Our partners on this project have been Progressive AE and the SePRO Corporation.