LAKE NORMAN, NC — Biologists say the invasive weed known as Hydrilla is building up in the Ramsey Creek part of Lake Norman and other areas. It's also in Lake Wylie.
The weed is believed to have gotten into U.S. lakes and rivers after it was sold to aquarium owners decades ago. It's toxic to some wildlife like bald eagles, which die if they feed on waterfowl that have eaten large quantities of it.
The plant also spreads quickly, and can choke the intakes of water treatment plants or snarl boat propellers.
Out on Lake Norman Tuesday, retired wildlife biologist Gene Vaughan told Channel 9 that Hydrilla already covers roughly 50 acres on one cove of the Ramsey Creek area.
"This is so aggressive," he said.
The week grows up from the bottom and can reach 15 feet in length. Pieces easily break off, and that's how it spreads.
"All that it takes is to settle down on the bottom of the lake and it will actually grow a brand-new plant,” said Vaughan.
Hydrilla also gets stuck to boats and boat trailers and can be spread from lake to lake that way.
In the coming months, the Lake Normal Marine Commission will be adding more sterile grass carp to the lake. The fish eat the plant, but experts say they graze on what's close to the surface, but don't destroy the roots below.
The Hydrilla problem on Lake Norman began in 2000, but got better. Now, experts with the Marine Commission say it's back and spreading.
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