The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is asking waterfowl hunters to help stop aquatic invasive species from spreading to new Texas waters. The agency said invasive species such as giant salvinia, other invasive plants and zebra mussels can reduce habitat quality, block access and harm ecosystems and infrastructure.
TPWD said hunters should take a few minutes to clean, drain and dry boats, trailers, tow vehicles, decoys, waders and other gear before moving from lake to lake. The agency said plant fragments can get caught on boats, trailers and vehicles. Suggested steps include using a wet/dry vacuum before rinsing, rinsing waders and decoys with a hose and a stiff brush, and draining water from decoys. A video on the TPWD YouTube channel shows how to do this.
Giant salvinia is a free-floating aquatic fern that TPWD said can double its coverage in a week. TPWD aquatic habitat enhancement biologist Jessica Metz said the plant can block hunters' access to good hunting areas and replace native plants that waterfowl eat. The agency said giant salvinia is present on 30 East Texas lakes and many rivers, creeks and marshes, mostly between Houston and Beaumont.