Hidden Threats: How Aquatic Weeds Impact Property Values

Aquatic weeds—especially invasive species like Eurasian watermilfoil—are more than just a nuisance on the water’s surface. They come with significant economic consequences. Globally, invasive aquatic plants are estimated to cause billions of dollars in damages, and in the United States their impact is widespread, affecting ecosystems, recreation, and local economies.

The Impact on Lakefront Homes
Research shows that lakes invaded by dense aquatic weeds consistently experience measurable declines in waterfront property values. Studies in Washington, Idaho, Vermont, and the Adirondack region have all documented this effect, with decreases in value ranging from modest reductions to nearly one-fifth of a property’s worth. These findings hold true across different parts of the country, confirming that the presence of invasive weeds can influence how much buyers are willing to pay for lakeside homes.

Why Values Decline
The reasons are straightforward. Dense aquatic vegetation makes lakes less appealing for recreation, reduces water clarity, and creates a perception of poor water quality or neglect. As a result, buyers see infested lakes as less desirable places to live, which translates directly into weaker real estate demand and lower property values.

The Case for Mechanical Removal
Managing aquatic weeds isn’t just about protecting the environment—it’s about safeguarding community investment. While chemical spraying can fragment weeds and contribute to long-term water quality issues, mechanical harvesting offers a more sustainable solution. By physically removing vegetation from the ecosystem, mechanical methods help restore recreational value, maintain water quality, and protect both biodiversity and the economic value of lakefront properties.

Sources

• Olden, J.D., Tamayo, M. (2014). Incentivizing the Public to Support Invasive Species Management: Eurasian Watermilfoil Reduces Lakefront Property Values. PLOS ONE.
• Zhang, C., Boyle, K.J. (2010). The Effect of an Aquatic Invasive Species (Eurasian Watermilfoil) on Lakefront Property Values. Ecological Economics.
• Lewis, M., et al. (2017). New Evidence Quantifies Effect of Water Quality on Lakefront Property Values. Idaho EPSCoR / National Science Foundation.
• Adirondack Life (2023). In the Weeds: The Fight Against Eurasian Watermilfoil.
• Macêdo, J.C.B. et al. (2024). Global Economic Costs of Invasive Aquatic and Semi-Aquatic Plants. Science of the Total Environment.
• National Invasive Species Information Center (USDA/USGS/EPA). Economic and Social Impacts of Invasive Species.