Important note 1 – It is important that you connect with Ryan on your in-lake sampling strategy. For us to assess genetic diversity accurately, it is critical that you collect a representative sample of watermilfoil from across your lake. Please set up a consultation with Ryan by email ([email protected]) or phone (406-994-4039).

 

  1. Collect 6-10 inches of meristem tissue (the top of the plant).
    1. IMPORTANT: Try to ensurethat each stem collected has a healthy growing meristem on its tip.

 Milfoil meristem

  1. Shake off, or gently brush off, any debris or algae using gentle agitation in water to make sure the meristem is clean.
  2. Lay the stems out on a damp (NOT wet) paper towel. You can fit about 5 comfortably on a standard size paper towel.
    Milfoil stems
  3. Place another damp (NOT wet) paper towel on top of the plants and gently roll them up (like a jelly roll)

 

 Shipping roll 1  Shipping roll 2  Shipping roll 3

  1. Place the paper towel roll on the bottom of a clearly labeled gallon-sized plastic bag


Shipping milfoil

  1. Label bag with:

Lake name

County

Location within the lake

Date

      1. IMPORTANT: Remember that it is important that we have a representative sample of watermilfoil from the lake. So, be sure to touch base with Ryan about sampling strategy before collecting and sending.
  1. Carefully pack the bags of plants into an insulated package (e.g., plastic or foam cooler) with one or more cold packs. Be careful to cushion the plants from the cold packs so they do not crush the plants.
  2. Ship overnight. The longer plants sit in the refrigerator or the mail, the less likely they will survive.
    1. If you need a shipping account, please contact Ryan so he can get you one.

Send plants to:

Ryan Thum

Montana State University

Department of Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology

119 Plant BioSciences Building

Bozeman, MT 59717-3150