12056 County, Rd. 1139
Tyler, TX 75709
(903) 216-1408
Email: etexbiz@gmail.com
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Some Ideas on stopping the lake weed invasion!
Some things need to be taken seriously before they have to be! This is one of them. In this case the problem is compounded by the fact that the invasion strikes at the root of our economy, our recreation, and our daily living: Water! Agriculture, industry, drinking, bathing, all the activities that provide food, work, sanitation, and recreation, are effected by the supply of water in Texas. Just imagine trying to live here in August without it!
In order to stop the invasion, we need everyone to enlist, particularly those who use our lakes, ponds, and waterways for recreation.
1. Let's make sure that our boat trailers are clean and weed free. This has been a major factor in several known cases of the spread of invasive weeds. If the motivation of keeping our lakes free of problems that might cause a disruption in water supply, or a disruption in recreational use is not enough, try this: The fine for transporting prohibited exotic species, is $500.00, per plant!
2. Boats should be meticulously cleaned as well. Propellers, bilge, live wells, from stem to stern, should all be checked before leaving an area!
3. All fishing tackle, gear, everything that went in, or near the water should be checked, and cleaned. This may not seem very important, but often, even the smallest particles of plant material can reproduce themselves. In the case of giant salvinia, which is a fern, the material can be very small, and the reproduction rapid. When one plant is established, it can turn into 60 million in a couple of months! Nothing is insignificant!
4. Everything said so far, concerning trailers and boats, should also apply to other recreational vehicles. Jet skis have many hiding places for exotic aquatic hitch hikers. They should have every nook and cranny checked. Four wheelers used in the edges of ponds, lakes, rivers, and creeks are no exceptions.
5. Do not deliberately foster the growth of any prohibited exotic species! Just because it is cute, doesn't mean it is safe. It might be more like cuddling with a porcupine! If you don't know what it is, it is probably best to leave it alone until it is identified.
6. If you see anything out of the ordinary growing in one of our ponds, lakes, or waterways, appropriate action should be taken immediately! Don't forget about it or ignore it! If you can identify it, and it is an invasive weed, contact the proper authorities!
7. If you own a lake or pond, or frequent a lake or pond, you should take some responsibility for it's continued health and well being. Actively take a close look at what is growing in it. Learn what to look for, and respond appropriately to any sightings of anything that might be a threat. There is a wonderful tool for doing this. Aquaplant is a diagnostic tool from the Extension Service, The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and Texas A&M, to help in identifying pond and lake plants.