Once milfoil is established within a body of water, it is nearly impossible to remove. A new plant can start from a tiny piece of a milfoil plant, making it easy to transport on boat trailers or boating and fishing gear.

One of the easiest ways for lake users to help control milfoil in Lake Minnetonka is by taking the time to thoroughly clean their boats, trailers and equipment after exiting a body of water and before entering another one.

Professional means of controlling milfoil include:

• Harvesting
• Herbicides
• Underwater rototilling
• Diver hand pulling and dredging

The 2006 Milfoil Demonstration Project showed that the use of selective herbicides was the best solution for large areas. The results clearly showed that milfoil can be controlled and native plants can be preserved.