MOBILE, Ala. –
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will be conducting a 43-acre subsurface herbicide application using Avast SC (active ingredient fluridone) in Potato Creek adjacent to Highway 27 on Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 4 - 5.
The purpose of the herbicide treatment is to reduce the spread of non-native invasive aquatic weed Hydrilla. The herbicides used pose no danger to swimmers, boaters, or fish.
Hydrilla is a noxious aquatic weed found throughout much of the United States. Hydrilla affects shoreline use in shallow areas, especially during the late summer and fall; however, the vast majority of the lake remains navigable. Hydrilla goes dormant during the winter and re-sprouts from the root system during late spring and summer. It has been related to Hazardous Algal Blooms (HAB), which can harm bird species such as bald eagle, American coot, great horned owl, killdeer, Canada goose, mallard, ring-necked duck, scaup, and bufflehead.
Boaters should ensure boat trailers, boats, and live wells are free of aquatic plants before leaving boat ramp areas. Hydrilla has negative impacts on lake users as plant growth becomes over-abundant.
For more information, call the West Point Project Office at 706-645-2937.
Release no. 26-016