Invasive Plant Species
The Swift Creek Reservoir is a popular place for neighborhoods, parks, boating, and recreation. However, it is important to be aware of invasive species that pose a threat to the health of the reservoir and the patrons who use the reservoir for recreation and for drinking water. Over the past decade or so, the Swift Creek Reservoir has struggled with an invasive species called hydrilla (hydrilla verticillata). Check out my presentation about hydrilla in the Swift Creek Reservoir and learn what to look for and the dangers the species may cause.
Hi Holly - it was very interesting to learn how one invasive species (carp) was used to combat another (hydrilla)!
ReplyDeleteHi Holly, when I saw the name of your watershed I thought it sounded familiar. My family and I went camping at Pochahontas State Park recently, which surrounds Swift Creek Lake. Turns out that's the same Swift Creek that feeds your reservoir. Small world! It is interesting to read about the method of using introduced Carp to battle the hydrilla. I haven't read anyting in general about Carp outcompeting other native species or causes other ecological problems, but I was wondering if there have been any specific negative effects in Swift Creek Reservoir.
ReplyDeleteThey dumped all those carp into the lake and the hydrilla still quadrupled?
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