(Reproduced from an email from Richard Ott, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department)
Aquatic Vegetation
We conducted our 2014 hydrilla survey of Lake Athens yesterday. Using our side-scan sonar we circumnavigated the entire perimeter of the reservoir. At any location where the sonar signature changed we collected a grab sample of the vegetation using a weed rake to identify species. We were unable to find any substantial concentrations of hydrilla. At two locations (well offshore) on the south side of the lake we collected individual, very small (less than three inch) sprigs of hydrilla. These sprigs were contained in a matrix of native species such as vallisneria, coontail, and Illinois pondweed. These locations were also well over 150 feet from the 440 MSL shoreline. We were unable to identify any hydrilla along the northeast shoreline where we measured approximately 1 acre last August (map attached). It appears that under the unusual hydrological conditions we have experienced since 2011 hydrilla is continuing to decline in competition with the native aquatic vegetation.
We were particularly sensitive to inspecting the shallow water areas (exposed over the past few years) which were inundated by spring rains. Because native submersed vegetation has not had time to colonize these areas yet this spring these are the area’s most likely to show hydrilla growth if tubers in the substrate sprouted as a result of being re-flooded. Fortunately, this shallow area is occupied by a native pannicum grass which is growing as an emergent. This will reduce the probability that hydrilla will become problematic.
Aquatic Vegetation
In summary Lake Athens currently has one of the most diverse and beneficial native aquatic plant communities I have ever had the pleasure to survey. The quality of the largemouth bass fishery this spring reflects the quality of the habitat and is a credit to the Athens Municipal Water Authority.
If I can be of any additional assistance, please let me know.
Richard A. Ott, Jr.
Management Supervisor
Inland Fisheries District 3C
Office 903-566-2161
Cell 903-570-1871