Developing Web-based Developing Web-based Outreach for County Outreach for County
Agents and the Public Agents and the Public on Aquatic Vegetation on Aquatic Vegetation
ManagementManagement
Michael P. Masser, Ph.D.Michael P. Masser, Ph.D.
Professor and Extension Professor and Extension Fisheries Specialist Fisheries Specialist
Texas A&M UniversityTexas A&M University
Negative Impacts of Negative Impacts of Aquatic Vegetation on Aquatic Vegetation on Private ImpoundmentsPrivate Impoundments
Reduce recreational accessReduce recreational access Clog irrigation systemsClog irrigation systems Increase evaporation ratesIncrease evaporation rates Increase eutrophication ratesIncrease eutrophication rates Impacts water qualityImpacts water quality Hinders feeding and harvestingHinders feeding and harvesting Increase insect breeding areasIncrease insect breeding areas
Knowledge ChallengeKnowledge Challenge County Extension Agents - trained in County Extension Agents - trained in
“Cows” and “Corn” (i.e. No Aquatic “Cows” and “Corn” (i.e. No Aquatic Background!)Background!)
Aquatic vegetation difficult to identifyAquatic vegetation difficult to identify Integrated pest management needed:Integrated pest management needed:
– PreventionPrevention– MechanicalMechanical– BiologicalBiological– ChemicalChemical
The Challenge!The Challenge! Create a simple identification program Create a simple identification program
of common aquatic plants.of common aquatic plants. Include photos and drawings with Include photos and drawings with
simple descriptions. (“KISS” – Keep it simple descriptions. (“KISS” – Keep it simple stupid!)simple stupid!)
Give management recommendations Give management recommendations that include all integrated approaches.that include all integrated approaches.
Establish links to applicable Establish links to applicable management options.management options.
Post DevelopmentPost Development District agent trainingsDistrict agent trainings Presentations at Aquaculture Presentations at Aquaculture
and Plant Management and Plant Management meetings.meetings.
Referrals to clients and County Referrals to clients and County AgentsAgents
Lots of hits!!!!!!!!Lots of hits!!!!!!!!