Over 10 years of researching and controlling swimmer’s itch at Higgins Lake.
Our Mission Statement: To explore and understand the causes of swimmer’s itch and use science-based, humane, and environmentally-sound methods to significantly reduce swimmer’s itch.
Our Success Story: HLSIO realizes that currently there is no known control program or technology that can totally eliminate swimmer’s itch. Since 2015, Higgins Lake has seen a significant reduction in the swimmer’s itch causing parasites in the lake. A 2024 published paper of research sponsored by HLSIO shows our management of mergansers greatly reduces swimmer’s itch.
Our Future:
Thank you to all of our supporters of the annual fundraising dinner in 2025. We had another sellout event with bucolic location at Witt’s Barn, great food from Fred’s of Roscommon, delightful music from Taylor Perry, and convivial mingling with our supporters and researchers. Watch for our August 13, 2026 annual dinner plans.