In 1996 information about a new biological control insect for Eurasian water milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) was publicized in a number of newspapers and scientific newsletters. A native weevil, Euhrychiopsis lecontei, commonly referred to as the milfoil weevil, was reported to be associated with Eurasian water milfoil declines in a number of Vermont Lakes. Closer to home, a story appeared in the Chicago Tribune about the sharp decline of the milfoil at McCullom Lake in northern Illinois which was also attributed to the weevil . And in Wisconsin, the weevil was attributed to unexplained milfoil declines in Fish and Wingra Lakes (Dane County) and Whitewater Lake in Walworth County. Together, these projects generated interest among both lake organizations and within the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to investigate the milfoil weevil as a biological control agent for Eurasian water milfoil.

The Whitewater-Rice Lakes Management District proposes to evaluate the effect of the supplemental enhancement of weevil populations as a selective aquatic plant management technique to control Myriophyllum spicatum. Project activities will result in a field evaluation of experimental weevil stocking, a status report and presentation to the lake group, and a final report including feasibility recommendations.

Evaluate Impact of Milfoil Weevils at Whitewater Lk