The Upper Saranac Foundation (USF) is pleased to announce the release of the 2025 Upper Saranac Lake Aquatic Invasive Species Management Project (USLAISMP) Report, highlighting more than two decades of sustained, science-driven success in protecting the ecological health and recreational value of Upper Saranac Lake.
The report confirms that long-term, data-driven management works. Through consistent investment and adaptive strategies, the USLAISMP has dramatically reduced invasive plant biomass, improved operational efficiency, and restored much of Upper Saranac Lake to low-density or aquatic invasive species (AIS)–free conditions—a notable achievement among Adirondack lakes.
Key Findings from 2025 – While the program’s overall success continues, 2025 data underscore the dynamic and evolving nature of aquatic invasive species management:
- Early detection and rapid response work. Continued monitoring and targeted diver removals have kept priority invasive species at manageable levels and prevented wider spread.
- Prevention remains the most cost-effective strategy. Boat launch stewardship, education, and outreach significantly reduce the risk of new introductions.
- Sustained effort is essential. AIS management is not a one-time fix; consistent, long-term investment is required to maintain gains.
- Data-driven management improves results. Mapping, tracking, and annual evaluation allow resources to be focused where they are most effective.
The full 2025 Upper Saranac Lake Aquatic Invasive Species Management Project Report is now available here and on the Upper Saranac Foundation website.
Adaptive Management in Action
Variable-leaf watermilfoil (VLM) increased in both abundance and distribution in 2025. This is linked to ongoing pressure from the Fish Creek Public Campground tributary, a known source of invasive plant spread.
In response to these findings, USF implemented enhanced containment and management efforts within the NYSDEC Fish Creek Public Campground in 2025 that will continue into 2026. This work was funded in part by a grant from the Lake Champlain Basin Program and the Northeast Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission.
These targeted actions are designed to reduce downstream transport of invasive species into Upper Saranac Lake and demonstrate the program’s ability to quickly identify emerging threats and adapt management strategies.
Although the 2025 season saw increases in pounds and plants removed, these values remain well below levels observed earlier in the program and reflect the challenge of managing low-density, widely dispersed infestations rather than large-scale outbreaks. Increasing diver effort will be critical to staying ahead of plant growth and preventing reintroduction.Together, these efforts continue to position the USLAISMP as a regional model for long-term invasive species management.
Looking Ahead
The experience of other lakes where management efforts were reduced—and invasive species rebounded—serves as a clear reminder: success depends on sustained commitment. Continued investment in monitoring, early detection, and adaptive response is essential to protecting water quality, native habitats, and the character of the Upper Saranac watershed for future generations.
