BRIDGTON – Lakes Environmental Association is continuing its efforts to stem the spread of variable leaf milfoil in the region’s lakes, a statement by the association said.

“LEA’s top priorities are to survey and attack the plants on Brandy Pond and to knock down the re-growth expected on the Songo River,” the LEA said.

On Thursday, July 3, LEA will hold a Floating Open House at the Naples Causeway on the S.S. Libra milfoil suction harvester.

The event is meant to give the general public an opportunity to see the boat in operation and to learn about the situation on the Songo River and Brandy Pond. The Libra was used extensively on the Songo River last summer and has been put into service on Brandy Pond this year. The open house will be on the Causeway at the Naples town dock starting at 10 a.m.

“The S.S. Libra is a marvel of Maine ingenuity,” said Peter Lowell, LEA’s executive director. “Seeing it will not only help people understand this important work, but it’s also interesting and entertaining.”

On Tuesday, July 8, LEA will conduct the Long Lake-Brandy Pond Operation Clean Sweep survey to check for invasive plant growth.

With Long Lake seriously threatened and Brandy Pond experiencing expanding infestations, it is crucial that both lakes be comprehensively checked, the LEA said.

LEA is looking for volunteers and boats to help survey the lakes. LEA staff and volunteers will meet on the Causeway at the Naples dock at 9 a.m. and, after a training session, quadrants of each lake will be checked for plants.

All interested in helping out with a boat or by snorkeling may contact LEA by e-mail at: [email protected] or by calling 647-8580.