Publication Number:
Last Electronic Revision: January 1997 (MSD)
2. To reduce the use of herbicides and demonstrate acceptable alternatives to herbicides for weed management in aquatic systems.
3. To reduce the impacts of aquatic herbicides on nontarget organisms.
2. To use the phenology of aquatic weeds to optimize timing of herbicide applications for maximum efficacy and to reduce the application rate.
3. To demonstrate biological control and mechanical removal as viable management options for aquatic weeds in ponds and lakes.
2. Phenological studies on monoecious hydrilla at Lake Gaston indicated a window for herbicide application in mid-June through early July.
3. Cutting with a boat-mounted weed mower appeared to be practical on certain weeds, such as American lotus.
Short-term summer drawdown may be a viable alternative for managing monoecioua hydrilla and other submerged weeds in large, multi-user lake systems without large-scale herbicide applications. Research suggests that its impacts are primarily on submersed weeds and should be minimal on emergent and floatingleaf vegetation. Phenological studies on monoecioua hydrilla are being used by state agencies in planning a long-term management program for hydrilla and other aquatic weeds at Lake Gaston. Mowing of American lotus appears to be an effective alternative to herbicide spraying both for weed control and to open boat lanes for fishing access. These projects will reduce herbicide applications while maintaining aquatic vegetation at levels more acceptable to the public.
2. Refine mowing studies to determine the best timing and frequency required for maximum efficacy and determine the practicality for its use on other species of noxious aquatic weeds.
3. Continue phenology studies on monoecious hydrilla and expand to include other noxious aquatic weeds.