The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) plans to conduct an aerial treatment targeting invasive aquatic plants in Lake Okeechobee during the week of October 6, depending on weather conditions. The focus of the operation will be the control of Luziola subintegra, also known as neotropical water grass, which has formed dense monocultures in certain areas of the lake.
According to the FWC, “The FWC will treat invasive Luziola subintegra (neotropical water grass) in areas where it exists in dense monocultures to limit ecological damage to the lake’s beneficial native plant communities and to preserve native habitat.”
The species is classified as an Early Detection Rapid Response species on Lake Okeechobee. Immediate action is necessary to prevent its spread within the lake and possible infestation of other bodies of water. The treatment will be carried out along the marsh edge within the Fisheating Bay area, and boat traffic may be affected.
“Invasive neotropical water grass is an Early Detection Rapid Response species on Lake Okeechobee and requires immediate and thorough treatment to prevent further expansion within the lake and potential infestation of other waterbodies. Treatment will take place along the marsh edge within the Fisheating Bay area and could affect boat traffic,” stated FWC officials.
For more information about Lake Okeechobee or related activities, members of the public can visit MyFWC.com/Lakes for resources such as fishing forecasts, virtual tours, annual workplans, and boat ramp details.
Questions about this specific treatment effort can be directed to FWC’s Invasive Plant Management Section by email at InvasivePlants@MyFWC.com or by phone at 850-617-9430.
