Negative emotions drive preference for herbicide treatments for aquatic invasive species in Wisconsin lakes

A new study published by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers found that fear is a large driver in lakeshore property owners’ preferences for herbicide treatments of aquatic invasive plants over other management options, even if those treatments may harm native plants and animals.

10/14/21

Treating lakes for Eurasian watermilfoil with herbicides can harm young fish

Wisconsin Sea Grant’s Gavin Dehnert earned his Ph.D. by studying the effects of commercial 2,4-D herbicide exposure on the development and behavior of freshwater fish at different life stages. Now, he’s taking his research out of the lab and into the natural environment, where 2,4-D is used to treat lakes for the invasive plant, Eurasian watermilfoil.