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5 <br />cyanobacteria that is naturally present on invasive aquatic vegetation, including <br />hydrilla. Predatory birds, including bald eagles and American coots, can be <br />infected by AVM after consuming impacted waterfowl. Hundreds of bald eagles <br />and thousands of other waterfowl have reportedly been killed by AVM since this <br />disease was first discovered approximately ten years ago. At least one case of <br />AVM has been confirmed in the Raleigh area. <br />Hydrilla Control <br />Efforts to control hydrilla in lakes typically include the use of sterile triploid grass <br />carp or the application of aquatic herbicides. Manual removal of hydrilla is not <br />effective. Four objectives for management of hydrilla were discussed at the <br />meeting and in subsequent communications: <br />1. Reduce hydrilla infestation level. <br />2. Protect habitat in the ecosystem such that stable, sustainable <br />populations of native aquatic plants are maintained. <br />3. Protect river fauna so that populations are maintained, especially for rare <br />species. <br />4. Maintain a "natural' river system that retains its aesthetic and <br />recreational value. <br />A list of possible next steps emerged from the recent efforts. This list includes: <br />1. Experimental treatment of hydrilla in a small area of the Eno with <br />endothall, an EPA registered aquatic herbicide. The lowest effective <br />concentration and required contact time would be used. <br />2. Inventory native submerged aquatic vegetation in the Eno and conduct <br />off -site research of sensitivity of these plant species to endothall and <br />other aquatic herbicides. <br />3. Conduct low -level toxicity studies of invertebrate species present in the <br />Eno to assess the risk of low -dose herbicide exposure. <br />4. Conduct an experimental release of triploid grass carp to determine <br />behavior and effectiveness of these fish. <br />5. Investigate other possible management options and explore funding <br />options. <br />6. Conduct outreach efforts to educate members of the public. <br />Elimination of hydrilla from the Eno River does not appear to be a simple process. <br />There are apparently few instances of hydrilla being present in a flowing aquatic <br />(lotic) system such as the Eno. The NCDENR Division of Water Resources (DWR) <br />includes an Aquatic Weed Control Program that can provide technical assistance <br />to property owners who may be having problems with invasive aquatic plants. <br />Cost share programs are available to local governments, public utilities and Soil <br />and Water Conservation Districts for hydrilla assessment and management efforts. <br />Urange County Department of Environment, Agriculture, Parks & Recreation <br />PO Box 8181, Hillsborough, NC 27278 <br />Phone: (919) 245 -2510 Fax: (919) 644 -3351 <br />