A Message from Our Leader: Looking Back, Planning Ahead for Our Lakes

As the Leaves Fall, Harvesting Winds Down

When Communities and Harvesters Work Hand in Hand

What’s Really Happening Beneath the Water?

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This devastating incident underscores the dangers of using chemicals to manage aquatic vegetation. While herbicides can offer a quick solution, the long-term damage can be severe—destroying ecosystems, harming wildlife, and raising health concerns for nearby communities.

The fish lost in Port St. Lucie were part of a balanced aquatic system that also supported birds, turtles, and other species. The sudden collapse of this environment sparked outrage and concern among residents who now question the safety and sustainability of chemical treatments.

Fortunately, there is a better way. Mechanical harvesting offers an eco-friendly, chemical-free method of aquatic weed control. It physically removes vegetation from the water without introducing toxins or disrupting the ecosystem. This method not only preserves water quality but also protects the fish, plants, and wildlife that depend on healthy aquatic habitats.

Whether managing a private lake, public waterway, or residential canal, mechanical harvesting is a responsible, sustainable solution. It’s an effective alternative for those who care about long-term water health and want to avoid the risks of herbicide use.

Read More about the ElkcamWaterway fish kill

Innovative Technologies for Lake Management

Africas’ Lake Victoria is the second largest freshwater lake in the world. It is less than 260 feet at its deepest point. For nearly ten years a growing water hyacinth infestation has wreaked havoc on the neighboring countries. Massive islands have formed that blow around from one region of the lake to another, like big green icebergs. When one of these masses settles into a port or bay, it paralyzes local fishing and transportation.

The Solution

Aquarius Systems proposed using three Swamp Devil Aquatic Vegetation Shredders to perform the work.  The Swamp Devil is a powerful machine fitted with two circular cutting blades on the bow that also serve to propel and steer the vessel.  By using a special double blade system, the machine could shred the water hyacinth into small pieces.

Read: Managing Aquatic Plants on a Massive Scale

Run off in Cape Coral canals comes from many places. It could be your street, your roof or your lawn. The recycled water used for irrigation is loaded with nitrogen and phosphorous which causes plants to thrive and contributes to algae outbreaks.

Last week Lee County Hyacinth Control cleared out about a miles worth of yellow pond lily from the Shelburne Canal in Cape Coral, Florida. Trapped inside that vegetation, was the equivalent of 10 pounds of fertilizer.