Several months ago, the City of Shreveport adopted a program for managing the growing problem of non-native aquatic weeds in Cross Lake. The primary problem is hydrilla, a rooted weed that has rapidly proliferated in recent years. Other non-native nuisance weeds that can pose a problem include water hyacinths and giant salvinia. The management program was based on recommendations presented in a study performed last year by Centenary College.

The City has already begun implementing the management program by performing GPS-based surveys of the extent of the infestation, installing signs at boat launches, advising boaters to clean their boats to avoid transporting the weeds into and from the lake and increasing the budget to implement controls in the lake.

We are now ready to move into the next phase of the program -- herbicide applications in the lake. A local contractor has been retained for this work, which will involve controlled applications of contact herbicides which are fully approved for use in drinking water reservoirs. These applications are intended as a short term measure to slow the growth of hydrilla and hyacinths and prevent their spread further east in the lake toward the water intake structure. A map showing the areas of the lake which will be initially targeted for these applications, is available by calling our office. Water from areas being treated should not be used for domestic purposes for 14 days after treatment.

The schedule for these applications is as follows, weather permitting:

Areas 1 & 2: Week of August 13^th

Areas 3 & 4: Week of August 20^th

Area 5: Week of August 27th

The next phase of the program will be stocking the lake with sterile grass carp. This measure will be the primary long-term control for hydrilla. Current plans are to perform the initial stocking in the month of September.

In addition, during fishing tournaments, Cross Lake Patrol will begin inspecting boats prior to launching in the lake for evidence of non-native weeds. Boats will be required to be clean and free from non-native vegetation prior to launching in the lake, to prevent further spread of these nuisance weeds.

For a copy of the map and for more information, contact Wes Wyche with the City of Shreveport’s Department of Operational Services at 673.7660.