Aquatic Plant Management Committee
Due to the hydrilla infestation that was seen in the Ramsey Creek area in 2017, 10,200 grass carp were stocked in May, 2018. A comprehensive survey was performed in Oct, 2018 by NC State and it was determined that 640 acres were infested with hydrilla. Based on this finding, it was decided to stock 12,500 grass carp in March, 2019. This stocking reduced the hydrilla during the 2019 growing season. Surveys were performed in fall of 2019 and 2021 and determined these stockings were effective in eliminating the hydrilla infestation. Maintenance stockings of 750 fish per year continued through 2024 along with studies to determine the mortality of the fish to help determine optimum levels of fish going forward. The 2024 survey showed a new hydrilla outbreak in Mundy Creek. It was agreed with NCDEQ to stock an additional 550 carp in 2025.
The Lake Norman Hydrilla Management Project is a joint effort with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ), Duke Energy, and Charlotte Water.
Lyngbya infestation – 2024
The LNMC led the effort to proactively address a Lyngbya infestation discovered in late 2023. Treatment began in April 2024. Here is the fact sheet
The program was very successful. Per the final program report (click here) “the 2024 Lake Norman pilot Lyngbya treatment program was successful and pilot
objectives were met.” The full report on efficacy is here. After Lyngbya was discovered in Mountain Island Lake and Lake Wylie, they adopted the program executed by the Laker Norman Marine Commission to combat the outbreaks in their lakes, including vendor selection and contracts.
Lyngbya infestation – 2025
After the success of the 2024 program, the LNMC and Lake Wylie Marine Commission formed a consortium with Charlotte Water and Duke Energy to coordinate treatments at the three lakes to achieve contractual efficiencies and cost savings through a unified approach with vendors and consultants. The Catawba Wateree Water Management Group was asked to provide administrative support to execute a single contract and manage funds. A proposal for the next four years was developed and presented to county and regional officials in January 2025 and is being executed starting in April 2025.
or email report to [email protected]