08-07-2005, 11:29 PM
Citizens asked to look for hydrilla
[url "http://spinalcolumnonline.com/1editorialtablebody.lasso?-token.searchtype=authorroutine&-token.lpsearchstring=Kevin%20Elliott&-nothing"]Kevin Elliott[/url]![[Image: z.gif]](http://spinalcolumnonline.com/images/z.gif)
August 03, 2005 - Environmental specialists around the state are asking Michigan residents to help locate infestations of an exotic species of aquatic plant that is wreaking havoc on waterways around the country.
The plant is called hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) and originates from the warm waters of Asia, Africa and Australia. Once introduced in an area, it quickly forms thick mats on the surface that stop sunlight from reaching other plants and disrupts the ecological balance of the waterway. Unlike other problem plants that can be controlled through herbicide treatments or weed harvesting, hydrilla is a tough plant that reportedly can spread unless completely taken out by the root.
The Michigan Sea Grant College program is now asking people to help hunt for the aquatic invader. But, don't worry if you can't find any — that's a good thing.
"We don't need it and we don't want it," said Sea Grant Spokeswoman Carol Swinehart.
In 2004, a total of 72 lakes in 43 counties were searched for hydrilla, and not a leaf was found. However, the plant has been reported in other states such as Pennsylvania and New York, proving it's adaptation to colder climates.
"We are asking Michigan folks to continue to search because they are our first line of defense in this effort to keep it out of Michigan," Swinehart said.
The weed's leaves are small, strap-like leaves which are pointed and often appear to have sharp teeth along the length of the leaf mid-rib. They grow in whorls of four to eight around the stem. Hydrilla also produces quarter inch turions, or buds, where the leaf and stalk meet, and potato-like tubers attached to the roots in the mud, which both provide the weed with an excellent method of reproduction.
Those looking for hydrilla should begin in the early morning on calm, sunny days around boating access sites. The plant can grow to the surface in water as deep as 25 feet. If a plant is found, it should be wrapped in an alcohol soaked paper towel and placed in a zip lock bag before being sent to the Sea Grant program.
For more information about hydrilla or to contact Michigan Sea Grant visit www.miseagrant.umich.edu.
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[url "http://spinalcolumnonline.com/1editorialtablebody.lasso?-token.searchtype=authorroutine&-token.lpsearchstring=Kevin%20Elliott&-nothing"]Kevin Elliott[/url]
August 03, 2005 - Environmental specialists around the state are asking Michigan residents to help locate infestations of an exotic species of aquatic plant that is wreaking havoc on waterways around the country.The plant is called hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) and originates from the warm waters of Asia, Africa and Australia. Once introduced in an area, it quickly forms thick mats on the surface that stop sunlight from reaching other plants and disrupts the ecological balance of the waterway. Unlike other problem plants that can be controlled through herbicide treatments or weed harvesting, hydrilla is a tough plant that reportedly can spread unless completely taken out by the root.
The Michigan Sea Grant College program is now asking people to help hunt for the aquatic invader. But, don't worry if you can't find any — that's a good thing.
"We don't need it and we don't want it," said Sea Grant Spokeswoman Carol Swinehart.
In 2004, a total of 72 lakes in 43 counties were searched for hydrilla, and not a leaf was found. However, the plant has been reported in other states such as Pennsylvania and New York, proving it's adaptation to colder climates.
"We are asking Michigan folks to continue to search because they are our first line of defense in this effort to keep it out of Michigan," Swinehart said.
The weed's leaves are small, strap-like leaves which are pointed and often appear to have sharp teeth along the length of the leaf mid-rib. They grow in whorls of four to eight around the stem. Hydrilla also produces quarter inch turions, or buds, where the leaf and stalk meet, and potato-like tubers attached to the roots in the mud, which both provide the weed with an excellent method of reproduction.
Those looking for hydrilla should begin in the early morning on calm, sunny days around boating access sites. The plant can grow to the surface in water as deep as 25 feet. If a plant is found, it should be wrapped in an alcohol soaked paper towel and placed in a zip lock bag before being sent to the Sea Grant program.
For more information about hydrilla or to contact Michigan Sea Grant visit www.miseagrant.umich.edu.
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