submitted by Marty Proctor,
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is continuing the treatment of Lake Apopka for hydrilla. Lake Apopka is a 30,000-acre lake in both Orange and south Lake counties. The primary outflow of this lake is through the Apopka-Beauclair Canal that feeds into the Harris Chain of lakes. Lake Apopka has a long history of environmental and pollution challenges. There are widespread and long-term efforts to improve water quality. These projects are run by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD), private contractors and the outflow to the Harris Chain is treated by the Lake County Water Authority.
In 2020, 5,200 acres of hydrilla were present in Lake Apopka, 485 acres were treated in 2020. Recent SONAR survey data collected in August 2021 indicated an increase to 6,900 to 11,100 acres of submersed plants, which was primarily hydrilla. Visual surveys conducted in the fall of 2021 indicated that hydrilla had expanded between Magnolia Park and the Northshore area, by the Apopka-Beauclair Canal entrance and toward open water within existing large plots. The treatment plan for 2022 is 8,020 acres. See the pictures included with this story for visual depictions of the treatment areas.
Aerial application will be the main application method. This is used for maximum efficacy and the lowest use of herbicides. Airboats will be used for smaller plots. March is the earliest treatment window for the most optimal water temperature and weather conditions. Other treatments will be completed mid to late March, weather dependent.
For those wanting more detailed information, the treatment schedule and maps are posted online at: MyFWC.com/Lake. Then click on the “Plant Mgmt Schedule of Operations” under the “Aquatic Plants” dropdown menu. Check weekly for posted treatments schedule as it is weather dependent.
For information or questions on the treatment plan please email Nathalie Visscher nathalie.visscher@myfwc.com
