Can Eurasian Watermilfoil Be Fed to Livestock?

A pond owner harvests large amounts of Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), which koi eat eagerly. They wonder if it's safe and nutritious for sheep or chickens as a dried supplement.

Current Knowledge

No documented use of watermilfoil as livestock feed exists. It's not known to be toxic unless grown in contaminated water (heavy metals, pesticides). Waterfowl consume it naturally.

If You Want to Experiment

1. Ensure clean water source: No runoff from roads, agriculture, or industry.
2. Offer fresh, not dried: Animals prefer fresh greens; drying may reduce palatability and nutrients.
3. Start tiny: Give a small amount to a few animals; monitor for digestive upset.
4. Observe for weeks: If no ill effects, gradually increase.

Better Alternatives

Compost the milfoil for garden fertilizer—it's rich in nutrients. Or leave it for wildlife; koi already enjoy it.

Without research backing, feeding invasive aquatic plants to food animals carries unknown risks. Proceed with extreme caution.