Lakes and wetlands across the United States are facing a big problem — the loss of important aquatic plants. One example is Lake Mattamuskeet in North Carolina, where underwater plants have almost disappeared. This loss is hurting the lake’s health and the many birds that depend on it.
Aquatic plants are very important for keeping lakes healthy. They help keep the water clean by reducing harmful nutrients, provide homes for fish, and prevent the lake bottom from washing away. When these plants disappear, the lake becomes unbalanced. The water becomes cloudy, oxygen levels drop, and fish populations start to die.
In Lake Mattamuskeet, the loss of plants has made the water murky and full of nutrients, which encourages harmful algae to grow. These algae blooms make things worse by blocking sunlight and using up oxygen. Fewer plants also mean less food for birds that migrate to the lake, which is another big problem.
Restoring Balance to Our Lakes
Bringing back aquatic plants is key to restoring the health of lakes like Mattamuskeet. When native plants return, they improve water quality, provide food and shelter for wildlife, and help stabilize the ecosystem. Efforts to control invasive species and allow native vegetation to grow can help break the cycle of decline. By protecting and restoring these plants, we give lakes a chance to heal and support the many species that depend on them.