The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will treat Lake Hatchineha in Osceola County for invasive hydrilla during the week ofJune 4-8, weather permitting.
The FWC will treat a 150-acre trail to enable navigation on the lake, using herbicides approved for use in lakes by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. There are no restrictions on fishing and swimming in the treated area.
Hydrilla is an invasive aquatic plant spread easily by boats throughout the state’s lakes and rivers. While recreational anglers and waterfowl hunters may see some benefits from hydrilla, there are other potential impacts to consider including negative impacts to beneficial native habitat, navigation, flood control, potable and irrigation water supplies, recreation and the aesthetic qualities of lakes. The FWC strives to balance these needs while managing hydrilla.
For information about this treatment, contact Kelle Sullivan, FWC invasive plant management regional biologist, at 863-534-7074.
Go to MyFWC.com/WildlifeHabitats and click on “Invasive Plants” to find out more about the management of invasive plant species, includingFrequently Asked Questions.
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