PAYNESVILLE, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota’s first confirmed infestation of starry stonewort has generated a coordinated response to stopping the grass-like algae in Lake Koronis.

The St. Cloud Times reports that the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources confirmed the presence of the macro algae in August. Since then, tens of thousands of dollars and hours of research have been funneled into efforts to stop the spread of starry stonewort.

The state DNR has ramped up boat inspections, the Koronis Lake Association is preparing to launch an $828,600 pilot project and University of Minnesota researchers are planning lab experiments.

Starry stonewort occupies about 250 acres on Lake Koronis. It has also been confirmed in New York, Michigan, Indiana and Wisconsin.