This invasive shrub emerges in the early spring and holds its leaves until late fall. Originally introduced as an ornamental plant, Japanese barberry has now spread throughout the east coast and into the Midwest, and it can be spotted in many wooded areas around Lake Mokoma. This hardy and highly adaptive plant often displaces native species when it roots, and it is a favorite place for deer ticks. 

Read more about Japanese barberry here.

Numerous growths of knotweed have been recently identified in the vicinity of Lake Mokoma: near the intersection of Lake Road and Sand Run Road, the west end of the dam, Mokoma Avenue, Fountain Avenue, the southwest end of the lake on South Railroad Bed Lane, and the southwest section of Fountain Avenue. Left unchecked, it will continue to spread and could eventually dominate the shoreline of the lake. The severity of its spread can be seen in the Muncy Creek watershed as it lines the shoreline from Sullivan County to Hughesville and beyond. Here is a link that provides information to help you identify the plant: https://extension.psu.edu/japanese-knotweed

Recently, Lake Mokoma experienced widespread infestation of this invasive aquatic plant that cost the Association $30,000 to eliminate. This highly invasive plant will spread throughout the lake and effectively choke out all other beneficial aquatic vegetation, which could impact the fish population and recreational boating in the lake, as well as the general health of the lake by altering its nutrient and pH levels. It was likely introduced to Lake Mokoma by a member or guest’s boat/trailer that was utilized in a body of water infested with the invasive plant and then placed in Lake Mokoma without being properly cleaned. Following is a link to pertinent information: http://elibrary.dcnr.pa.gov/GetDocument?  docId=1738823&DocName=Carolina%20fanwort.pdf

No tree species is more iconic of our area than the Hemlock.  Unfortunately, this tiny insect, the woolly adelgid, has been decimating hemlock populations throughout its range. The insect has been seen on trees in our area.  Luckily, some of these populations are fluctuating and in some cases have disappeared from the tree. The insect’s life cycle makes it a difficult one to control. However, there are measures that homeowners can take for emergent or minor infestations, especially on smaller trees. For more information, click here:  https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Conservation/ForestsAndTrees/InsectsAndDiseases/HemlockWoollyAdelgid/Pages/default.aspx

This relatively new threat is spreading quickly throughout Pennsylvania. It is an opportunistic pest that attacks a variety of plants, which makes it a potentially impactful insect. If you see one, you are encouraged to kill it by squashing it or by submerging it in alcohol or hand-sanitizer. It does not bite or sting but can fly for short distances. Penn State is recording sightings (see the link below) and mapping its spread. Additionally, the PA Dept. of Agriculture has placed nearly the entire southern part of the state under quarantine (this included Lycoming County) whereby residents are asked to be diligent before they travel. 

For more information: https://extension.psu.edu/spotted-lanternfly

To report a sighting: https://extension.psu.edu/have-you-seen-a-spotted-lanternfly

A quarantine checklist for residents: https://www.agriculture.pa.gov/Plants_Land_Water/PlantIndustry/Entomology/spotted_lanternfly/quarantine/Documents/SLF_Checklist_for_Residents.pdf

This nuisance shrub emerges early in the season and, by growing quickly and densely, out-competes native shrubs such as blueberry. The berries are eaten by wildlife but have little nutrition compared to native shrubs. It is well-established around Lake Mokoma and can be seen on roadsides, trails, and marinas. Despite its ubiquity, it is controllable by mechanical means. Homeowners should consider cutting them as close to ground level as possible in mid-summer as the berries appear, as this repeated strategy has proven effective in areas around the lake. For more information: https://extension.psu.edu/shrub-honeysuckles