CORTLAND, Ohio - The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is teaming up with agency partners to develop a plan for reducing the growth of Hydrilla verticillata (hydrilla) at Mosquito Creek Lake.

Hydrilla is a highly invasive aquatic plant. It can grow up to an inch a day, producing dense mats of vegetation that begin on the lake bottom and reach the water's surface.

Mats may become several feet thick and displace the native plants essential to keep Mosquito Creek Lake healthy.

Thick mats are currently growing alongside weedy vegetation in a small portion of the lake resulting in poor aquatic habitat and difficult navigation for boaters and swimmers.

Mosquito Creek Lake Park Manager, Josie McKenna says hydrilla is currently impacting less than 1% of the lake.

"Part of the action plan being finalized includes strategically treating the impacted acres, which will help slow the spread of hydrilla which can take years to remove," McKenna said.

If untreated, the hydrilla can clog water around boat docks, interfere with water control features and become the dominant plant in the lake.

When aquatic plants decompose, it can contribute to winter fish kills by reducing oxygen under the ice cover.

"This is more than just cutting back on overgrown vegetation. We need to use specific techniques, such as targeted chemical control, to limit the spread of hydrilla to protect the overall water quality and recreational value of the lake," McKenna said.

Local boaters, anglers in fishing tournaments and residents also have a role to play in stopping the spread of hydrilla. ODNR recommends the following:

-Boaters should clean mud or any plant fragments from boats, propellers, trailers and all gear including waders and boots before leaving a lake or stream.

-Boaters should rinse any part of their boat that has been in contact with Mosquito Creek Lake waters with high pressure and hot water when possible.

-Never release aquarium or aqua garden plants into the wild. Instead, seal them in a plastic bag and throw them in the trash.

The action plan is being developed by ODNR, the Ohio EPA, U.S. Army Corps and Cleveland Metroparks. With funding from an Ohio River Watershed grant, ODNR and its partners will begin addressing the affected acres in Spring of 2022.