Cascade Water Alliance has awarded a contract for milfoil treatment in Lake Tapps to Aquatechnex, which will provide aquatic management and milfoil eradication and control services.

Treatment will begin on identified areas the week of Aug. 30.

Eurasian Water milfoil is a non-native, invasive aquatic plant that spreads rapidly, crowds out native plants and forms dense surface mats in Lake Tapps, explained Jon Shimada, Cascade’s Capital Projects Director.

“If the milfoil is not contained or controlled, it will pose a serious threat to this lake,” Shimada said. “Lake Tapps is approximately 2,500 acres and the maximum treatment area at this time is approximately 400 acres.”

Shimada added that this is an initial treatment effort. Although results will not be seen for about two months, it will be effective, said Terry McNabb, project manager at Aquatechnex.

“Residents may not see a difference right away. But this first treatment will make a difference as the warm weather begins next year. The infestation will be greatly reduced.”

The State Department of Ecology requires a 10-day notice period per treatment application. McNabb said that notice period will begin this week. In addition, homeowners in affected areas will be notified at their property that treatment will be done.

For specific information about treatment activities, visit www.tappsmilfoil.wordpress.com.