Fighting Invasive Aquatic Plants: Strategies for Control

The tranquility of our lakes, rivers, and ponds masks a silent threat beneath the surface – invasive aquatic plants. These unwelcome guests can wreak havoc on ecosystems, disrupting the balance of aquatic life and impeding recreational activities. In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the world of invasive aquatic plants, exploring their origins, notorious culprits, and the importance of combating them. Join us on a journey to understand these invaders and discover effective strategies to protect our precious water bodies.

What Are Invasive Aquatic Plants?

Invasive aquatic plants are non-native plant species that establish themselves in aquatic ecosystems and rapidly outcompete native vegetation. They often spread aggressively, taking over large areas of water bodies, disrupting natural habitats, and altering the ecological balance. While some aquatic plants are native and play a vital role in the ecosystem, invasive species can be devastating.

Where Do Invasive Aquatic Plants Come From?

Invasive aquatic plants usually originate from other regions or continents. They are introduced unintentionally, primarily through human activities such as aquarium trade, boating, gardening, and aquaculture. The transportation of boats and equipment from one body of water to another, often contaminated with plant fragments, is a significant factor for the spread of invasive aquatic plants.

What Are the Most Common Invasive Aquatic Plants?

Several invasive aquatic plant species have gained a reputation for their aggressive growth and impact on ecosystems. Some of the most well-known include:

1. Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata): Often referred to as the “Godzilla of invasive plants,” hydrilla forms dense mats on the water’s surface, choking out native plants and hindering waterway navigation.
2. Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia/Pontederia crassipes): This fast-growing plant with beautiful lavender flowers can double its population in just a few days, clogging waterways and limiting light penetration, which harms native species.
3. Eurasian Watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum): This plant is notorious for its rapid growth and ability to crowd out native plants, disrupting fish habitats and water-based recreation.
4. Giant Salvinia (Salvinia molesta): Originating from South America, this free-floating aquatic fern multiplies rapidly, forming dense mats on the water’s surface, preventing light and oxygen from reaching the water.
5. Elodea (Elodea canadensis): Also known as Canadian waterweed, elodea can form dense underwater colonies, affecting water quality and potentially harming native aquatic species.

Why Are Aquatic Invasive Plants Bad?

Invasive aquatic plants pose a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems and the communities that rely on them. Here is why they are so dangerous:

1. Habitat Disruption: Invasive plants can disrupt native habitats, displacing native flora and fauna. This can lead to a decline in biodiversity and negatively affect fish populations.
2. Economic Impact: The presence of invasive aquatic plants can hinder recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. This, in turn, can impact local economies that rely on tourism and water-related businesses.
3. Water Quality: Some invasive plants can alter water quality by reducing oxygen levels and increasing nutrient concentrations. This can lead to algal blooms and water quality issues.
4. Navigation Issues: Dense mats of invasive plants can make waterways impassable, impeding navigation and water transport.
5. Wildlife Impact: Invasive plants can displace native plants that provide food and habitat for aquatic wildlife. This can lead to declines in fish populations and other aquatic species.

What to Do Against Invasive Aquatic Plants?

Thankfully, there are strategies to combat the spread of invasive aquatic plants:

1. Early Detection and Monitoring: Regular monitoring and reporting of invasive plant populations can help authorities respond promptly. Citizen scientists and community involvement can be invaluable in this regard.
2. Mechanical Control: Techniques such as cutting, raking, and dredging can physically remove invasive plants. However, these methods may need to be repeated to prevent regrowth. It’s essential to take care not to dislodge plant fragments, which can contribute to further spreading.
3. Education and Prevention: Raising awareness about the risks of invasive aquatic plants and promoting responsible practices, such as cleaning boats and equipment before moving them to different water bodies, can help prevent their spread. Education is a crucial component of any successful invasive plant management plan.

How Can Berky Help You to Manage Your Invasive Aquatic Plants?

At BERKY, we understand the importance of protecting our water bodies from the threat of invasive aquatic plants. Our range of specialized equipment and services are designed to assist communities, environmental agencies, and concerned individuals in managing and controlling these invasive species effectively.

BERKY offers cutting-edge technology for mechanical control of invasive aquatic plants. Our equipment is designed to efficiently remove unwanted vegetation, including notorious culprits like hydrilla, water hyacinth, and elodea. Our solutions are carefully crafted to minimize the risk of further spreading and ensure the health of native aquatic ecosystems.

Our mowing boats will help you to remove floating and rooted aquatic plants from ditches, canals, rivers, and lakes. The 7300 Front Collection Rake is perfectly suited for collecting large amounts of plants. For smaller types of aquatic plants, our 7400 Weed- and Trash-Basket will screen even the smallest bits of plants from the water.

For large surfaces, our aquatic weed harvesters will take your operations to the next level. The combination of cutting, collection, and storing of the materials in one workflow will allow you to clear large areas with ease.