The Southwest Florida Water Management District will be treating water hyacinth and water lettuce on portions of Shell Creek and Prairie Creek Feb. 6-9. The sites are located upstream of the Henderson Dam in Charlotte County.
Treatment involves the spot application of the aquatic herbicide Reward to scattered infestations. Treated areas will be posted with warning signs displaying treatment dates and applicable water use restrictions. Water treated with Reward should not be used for livestock watering for one day, irrigation of lawn and ornamental plants for one day, or crops for five days. Treated water should not be used for drinking for one day. Restrictions do not apply to tap or well water.
Water hyacinth and water lettuce are troublesome aquatic plants from South America that were brought to Florida in the late 1800s. Water hyacinth is a fast-growing plant that expands quickly. Water lettuce is considered one of the worst weeds in the subtropical and tropical regions of the world and can double its population in less than three weeks.
If these aquatic plants are not controlled, recreational activities, navigation, flood control and fish and wildlife populations may be negatively impacted. The management of these plants on the Shell and Prairie Creeks is a cooperative effort between the District and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
For more information, please call the District at 352-796-7211 or 1-800-423-1476.