The Problem with Herbicides in Lakes

Chemical herbicides like glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup) are commonly used to control lake weeds. But the science is clear: spraying doesn’t eliminate the problem—it buries it. When herbicides are sprayed on aquatic vegetation, the plants die but are left to rot in place. This decaying biomass settles at the bottom of the lake, creating muck and releasing nutrients and toxins back into the water column. This process fuels future weed growth and can lead to harmful algal blooms. Worse still, many HOAs draw irrigation water from these same lakes. That means the chemical residue, along with the toxins from decaying vegetation, is pumped directly onto homeowners’ lawns, gardens, and fruit trees. The very water you think is helping your plants grow could be bringing carcinogens and endocrine-disrupting chemicals right to your doorstep.

The Case for Mechanical Removal

Mechanical weed removal—like the kind provided by Weedoo workboats—offers a smarter, safer, and more sustainable solution. Unlike spraying, mechanical harvesting physically removes the weeds from the lake, taking the biomass and its nutrient load out of the ecosystem entirely. This method prevents the buildup of muck, reduces the risk of algal blooms, and leaves the water safe for irrigation immediately after. Weedoo is leading the charge with compact, affordable, easy-to-operate aquatic workboats designed specifically for this purpose. Cities across the country—from Hilton Head to Austin to Miami Beach—are beginning to ban herbicide spraying in favor of safer alternatives. HOAs should do the same. Cities Saying ‘No’ to Glyphosate! 🌿 Across the U.S., a wave of cities is taking a stand against glyphosate-based herbicides like Roundup, prioritizing public health and environmental safety. Here’s a snapshot of municipalities leading the charge: In California: Burbank, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Petaluma, Richmond, Santa Rosa, Sonoma, Thousand Oaks, and Watsonville. In Florida: Miami, Fort Myers Beach, Key West, Martin County, Miami Beach, North Miami, Satellite Beach, and Stuart. Connecticut towns such as Branford, Cheshire, Essex, Greenwich, Manchester, Plainville, Roxbury, Watertown, and Woodbridge. Illinois cities like Chicago, Evanston, Franklin Park, Naperville, and Urbana. Boulder and Durango in Colorado; Austin and Denton in Texas; Portland and Ogunquit in Maine; Montgomery County and Takoma Park in Maryland; New York City; Portland, Oregon; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Reno, Nevada; New Jersey statewide; Dubuque and Story County in Iowa; Tucson, Arizona; Maui, Hawaii; Springfield, Massachusetts; Baltimore, Maryland; and Hallowell, Maine have all taken action. Glyphosate, the active ingredient in many herbicides, has been linked to health concerns, including cancer risks. These proactive measures reflect a growing commitment to safer, healthier communities. As cities move away from chemical herbicides, innovative solutions like Weedoo are stepping up. Weedoo’s aquatic weed removal boats offer an eco-friendly, mechanical method to manage invasive vegetation without harmful chemicals—perfect for maintaining clean waterways and promoting environmental sustainability.

This Is a Homeowner Rights Issue

If your HOA sprays herbicides on the lakes that irrigate your property, you have every right to be concerned—and to demand change. Chemical spraying affects the health of your family, your pets, your landscape, and your water. As a homeowner, you should not be forced to accept a practice that brings potentially toxic substances into your home environment. It’s time to insist that your HOA puts safety first. Mechanical weed removal isn’t just a better option—it’s the responsible one.

Make the Shift

Encourage your HOA to join the growing movement away from chemicals and toward sustainable, mechanical lake maintenance. Weedoo is here to make that transition affordable and effective.

Let’s stop treating our lakes like chemical dumping grounds. The water that surrounds your home should nourish your landscape—not poison it. #BanTheSpray #WeedooWorks #SafeWaterSafeHomes #HOARightToCleanWater