SHAWANO COUNTY: Shawano Lake Leyogonimus Parasite Study

The Shawano County Land Conservation Department proposes to study the exotic trematode (flatworm) parasite 'Leyogonimus' polyoon and its effects on Shawano Lake ecology. This parasite is responsible for 1,441 dead American coot in 1996, and 11,808 in 1997 on Shawano Lake. Leyogonimus has not been reported before in any North American water birds, but has the potential to spread, infect and possibly kill many native North American waterfowl. Infected coot can carry and spread this parasite to other local, state, national and international water. This project will lead to significant information on identification and quantification of the parasite and its sources on Shawano Lake. It will also examine water quality and habitat factors associated with the parasite. The project will work cooperatively with local, regional, state, federal and international governments to gather significant information critical for management and implementation plans to rid/control the parasite on Shawano Lake. The DNR will be provided with two paper copies and an electronic copy of the final report. Information will be disseminated to local, regional, state, federal and international public via community meetings, newspapers, radio, Tv, presentations and a published report.

Activities

• Issue News/Media Release
• Project Deliverable
• Lakes Planning Grant
• Informational Meetings
• Monitor Invasive Species
• Aquatic Invasives Research
• Monitor Water Quality or Sediment