The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) this month will treat portions of Lake Tohopekaliga, also known as Lake Toho, in Osceola County for hydrilla, weather permitting.From Feb. 13-24, the FWC will treat 2,300 acres of Lake Toho, following a plan created with input from stakeholders during a public meeting on Sept. 13, 2016.
The FWC will use 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 treatment, 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 more information about this treatment, contact Ed Harris, FWC invasive plant management regional biologist, at 321-246-0573.
Go to MyFWC.com/WildlifeHabitats and click on "Invasive Plants" to find out more about management of invasive plant species, including FAQs.
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