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Course Outline

Managing non-native aquatic plants (nuisance species) that have been introduced into Florida's waterways costs millions of dollars each year. These invasive aquatic plants can:

  • Edge out beneficial native submersed plants and lower oxygen levels resulting in fish kills.
  • Hamper the feeding of sport fish producing stunted fish populations.
  • Negatively impact local economies.
  • Threaten human health by creating ideal mosquito breeding habitats.
  • Restrict water flow, resulting in flooding.
  • Reduce lakefront aesthetics and property values.
  • Increase the sedimentation of waterways.

Non-native aquatic plants, such as hydrilla, water lettuce, and water hyacinth, are invasive weeds that can cause significant environmental harm.

  • Help slow the spread of these species and prevent additional invasive aquatic species from becoming established.
  • Clean all aquatic plants (even small fragments) and mud from your boat and trailer before leaving a waterway.
Hydrilla on boat
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