1. The Presence of the Waterweed Hydrilla in Swift Creek Reservoir
September

2. What is Hydrilla?
Non-native invasive water plant indigenous to Asia/Africa
First appeared in U.S. waters around 1960 in Florida from discarded aquarium plants
Common and pervasive in lakes and reservoirs throughout the U.S.
Could be considered an aquatic version of Kudzu. Many similarities…native to Asia, Rapid Growth Rate, Problematic

3. Hydrilla Ecology Rooted aquatic plant that forms dense surface mats
Rapid growth (up to one inch/day)
Grows in depths ranging from one inch to 20 feet
Reproduces by seed, fragmentation and runners
Often introduced to lakes and reservoirs on boats and trailers
Comparatively, the Kudzu plant has a documented growth rate of up to a foot per day

4. Hydrilla Characteristics
Spiny leaves that circle the stem
Adapted for photosynthesis in low light
Efficient use of available nutrients
Hardy - Over winters as a perennial
Can out-compete native species of plants

5. Brandermill
Woolridge Road
Woodlake
Hull Street Road

6. Current Situation Not impacting source water quality for treatment
Some die-off expected during Winter
Concern that growth next year may increase substantially
Increased growth may be detrimental to recreational use and treatability

7. Response Plan to Date
Chesterfield County Department of Utilities and Environmental Engineering Staff conducted an initial survey of the extent of the growth (August 20th 2009)
Consultant contacted and Scope of Services for Best Management Strategies has been submitted for review by Utilities
Members of consulting staff are leading professionals in aquatic plant control as related to water treatment