Watkins Glen, NY - The highly invasive aquatic plant, Hydrilla verticillata, known commonly as 'hydrilla' or 'water thyme' was recently detected in the Cayuga Inlet.  The plant creates a thick mat of vegetation when it reaches the water's surface. It grows aggressively, up to a foot a day and quickly shades out other aquatic plants, displacing native species. To date, hydrilla appears to be localized to the Cayuga Inlet, with no evidence that it has yet rooted in Cayuga Lake or nearby lakes.  But, this is the first detection of hydrilla in upstate New York's waters, and the risk of it spreading to Cayuga Lake and other regional waterbodies is substantial. Fragments of the plant, which are easily caught and transported by boats and boat trailers, can sprout roots and establish new populations. Fragments also float and are capable of dispersing via wind and water currents.  Once an aquatic site is infested, eradication of hydrilla is very difficult.
To help prevent the spread of hydrilla, the Schuyler County Water Quality Coordinating Committee (WQCC) and the Schuyler County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) are holding a plant identification and monitoring workshop on Thursday, May 24 from 3 to 5 pm at the Tyrone Fire Hall on State Route 226 just east of the hamlet of Tyrone.  Scott Kishbaugh of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation will be leading the program.  All residents with an interest in watching out for this weed are welcome but marina owners, boaters, fishermen and lakeshore residents are strongly encouraged to attend.
Pre-registration is requested by calling Elaine Dalrymple, Schuyler SWCD, 535-6878.