Science & Nature

Threats

Perry Lakes is a resilient ecosystem — but it faces real and active threats. Understanding them is the first step to managing them. Here’s what we’re watching.

Photo: Ian Stewart

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What we’re watching

Two threats are documented and actively monitored at launch. Each is meaningfully different in character — one a long-term water-chemistry story, the other a live biosecurity emergency moving toward the reserve.

Moderate — monitoring closely

Eutrophication

Nutrient loading and toxic algal bloom risk

Phosphorus accumulation in both lakes is putting Perry Lakes at risk of the same toxic cyanobacteria blooms that have devastated Lake Monger. We’re monitoring closely and acting now.

Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer

An invasive beetle threatening the reserve’s trees

PSHB has been detected in suburbs surrounding Perry Lakes. It’s only a matter of time before it reaches the reserve. Know the signs. Report what you see.