Invasive plant found in two locations in Conesus Lake

GENESEO, N.Y. (WHEC) — An invasive plant has been found in at least two locations in Conesus Lake.

Livingston County says the plant is called Starry Stonewort and it can form thick beds, eventually dominating a body of water, displacing native plants and even making fishing, boating and lake recreation nearly impossible.

According to Livingston County, the plant has also been found in other areas in the Finger Lakes region, including Owasco, Cayuga, Keuka and Canandaigua lakes.

Livingston County says the lake is monitored comprehensively, so this is likely a new infestation, and the Conesus Lake Watershed Council’s Invasive Species Prevention and Response Plan for control, outreach, and coordination has been initiated.

If you see the plant, document it by taking pictures and marking the area with GPS points and send the information to FLPRISM@gmail.com.

Just last week, harmful blue green algae was found throughout Conesus Lake.