Invasive Aquatic Plants

Welcome to this CEU on Invasive Aquatic Plants. The purpose of this recertification CEU is to be used as an essential information source for the identification and management of the invasive plants that threaten Florida’s lakes, rivers, canals, and wetlands. As such, attention must be given to how these species arrive, why they spread so rapidly in the absence of natural controls, and what each one does to navigation, flood control, water quality, and native habitat. Special emphasis is placed on prevention, early detection, and the integration of chemical, mechanical, and biological control in long-term management programs. Go ahead and get started!

Learning Objectives:

The following is a list of the key points to be discussed within this course.

• Identify the major invasive aquatic plants and explain the growth and reproductive characteristics that make them invasive.
• Describe how invasive aquatic plants are introduced and spread, including movement on boats, trailers, and equipment.
• Explain the economic and ecological impacts of invasive aquatic plant infestations.
• Describe the prevention and early detection practices that stop an infestation before it becomes established.
• Explain the chemical, mechanical, and biological control options available and how they are integrated in a management program.

Florida Course Approval

Tyler Pettis – Director of Training