FWC plans to improve navigation on Lake Harris

March 26, 2018

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FWC plans to improve navigation on Lake Harris  

FWC photo.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) plans to treat hydrilla on portions of Lake Harris during the week of March 26-30, weather permitting.

The treatments will be conducted to improve navigational access on portions of the 13,788-acre lake, which is southeast of Leesburg in Lake County.

The FWC’s Invasive Plant Management Section will treat 2,285 acres of invasive hydrilla on the lake. The FWC will be aerially applying an herbicide that has been approved for use on lakes by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

There will be no restrictions to fishing or swimming on Lake Harris during this treatment.

Hydrilla is an invasive aquatic plant spread easily by boats in Florida. While recreational anglers and waterfowl hunters may see some benefits from hydrilla, there are other potential impacts to consider, including negative impacts to beneficial native habitat, navigation, flood control, potable and irrigation water supplies, recreation and the aesthetic qualities of lakes. The FWC strives to balance these needs while managing hydrilla.

If you have questions about this treatment, contact Nathalie Visscher, FWC invasive plant management biologist, at 321-228-3364.