Cold weather delays Florida's treatment on Lake Lawne

Hydrilla treatment by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) on Lake Lawne in Orange County is postponed until sometime in March because of the continued cold weather. The treatment was originally planned for Feb. 16.

Hydrilla is an invasive, exotic aquatic plant that spreads easily by boats to the state's lakes and rivers. It clogs waterways, making recreational activities difficult or impossible, and kills off beneficial native plants. Managing and treating it is necessary for the health of Florida's waters and to enable continued recreational boating and other aquatic activities.

The FWC will treat the hydrilla with Aquathol™ , which has no restrictions for fishing or swimming; however, there is a 14-day irrigation restriction. Aquathol™ is approved for use in lakes by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The FWC's Invasive Plant Management Section will post notification at the lake's public boat ramp when the treatment begins and upon completion of the 14-day irrigation restriction.

For questions about this treatment contact Alicia Knecht, FWC invasive plant management regional biologist at 407-275-4004.