The state of Arkansas was forced to take action after an invasive species of plant overtook a local lake!
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Georgia Pacific have eliminated an invasion of a water hyacinth plant species that was putting local fisheries and boaters at risk. It was spreading across the lake after spreading from its origin in South America.
“Alien” Water Hyacinth Species Eradicated In State Government Effort
In a collaborative effort, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) and Georgia-Pacific have successfully eradicated an invasion of water hyacinth from Lake Georgia-Pacific in Ashley County. The lake, owned by Georgia-Pacific, faced a potential ecological disaster with the rapid spread of this invasive aquatic plant.
AGFC staff promptly removed the water hyacinth, which if left untreated, could have severely impacted local fisheries and boating activities. The plant, originally from the Amazon Basin, was discovered in the canal leading to the lake’s main body last week.
Immediate action was taken following the discovery, including a temporary closure of the lake’s boat ramp. This measure was critical to prevent the further spread of the nuisance species.
Matt Horton, AGFC’s aquatic nuisance species program coordinator, emphasized the importance of swift response in managing such environmental threats. The partnership between AGFC and Georgia-Pacific was key to the operation’s success.
The eradication process involved removing boatloads of the invasive plant, ensuring that Lake Georgia-Pacific remains a healthy aquatic environment for both wildlife and recreational users.
What Is Water Hyacinth?
Pontederia crassipes, commonly called water hyacinth, is an aquatic plant native to South America.
Sadly, the plant has spread globally, becoming an invasive species outside its original habitat, and is the only species in the subgenus Oshunae of the genus Pontederia.
