Lake Management Group

of Hickory Hills Lake, Lunenburg, MA

American Lotus

The 2018 Vegetation Survey conducted by Solitude Lake Management revealed a moderate to dense patch of American lotus in the cove to the east of Hemlock Terrace, where it covers an area of approximately 4,000 square feet. 

This plant has the ability to spread quickly and take over wetland habitats and shoreline. It can spread aggressively outcompeting native aquatic vegetation.  American Lotus can impede recreational uses such as swimming, boating and fishing. In muddy substrates it can grow several feet underground, making it difficult to remove.

Active management is recommended in order to limit their population and spread in the lake and to minimize adverse effects on native flora and fauna.