What is that stuff floating on the Chain?

Most of the plant material you see floating and at the bottom of the Chain right now is called filamentous algae.  It is considered a native non-invasive plant that is becoming more of a problem in the region in recent years because it creates boat navigational problems.  It comes in three forms that are identified by its texture.  Cladophora has a cottony feel, Spirogyra is neon green and slimy, and Pithophora is sometimes called "horsehair" and has a texture like that or maybe steel wool.  All forms thrive in shallow, warm, and clear water (usually in tandem with lakes with zebra mussels) which are the conditions that we have right now. 

In and of itself, filamentous algae is natural and only becomes a problem when it is thick and reduces our ability to navigate through it.  The short term solution to it is to mechanically remove it, and the long term solution is to reduce run-off that carries nutrients to the Chain.  To help out, don't use fertilizers for your lawn and consider doing a lakescaping project to minimize run-off. To learn more visit the Aquatic Plant Management page.