Hello,

First, let me introduce myself.  My name is Jessica Baumann, and I am the Extension Associate for the Aquatic Plant Management Program at NC State University.  Our program has been tasked by the Lake Gaston Weed Control Council to manage Lake Gaston’s aquatic plant community in conjunction with the Lake Gaston Technical Advisory Committee and Stakeholders’ group.

There has been a noticeable increase in aquatic plant growth throughout Lake Gaston over the last few weeks. The onset of summer and recent heat wave have resulted in a rapid increase in water temperature and sun exposure time, both of which are driving factors for aquatic plant growth. We have received reports of increased growth for both our native species, especially naiads and chara, and our nuisance species, hydrilla and lyngbya, two species that are targeted by Lake Gaston Weed Control Council facilitated management plans.

My suggestion to all experiencing increased plant growth around their shoreline is to report it in the Public Report for Nuisance Aquatic Species Form (https://forms.gle/hRqCnWb3o6qULnq68). This will give me more information on location and species, plus it will add you to our running database. Aquatic plants can be easily mistaken, so emailing pictures showing the growth around your shoreline, as well as the plant out of the water, would be very helpful. You can email the pictures directly to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

For those in which a native species is identified, the Lake Gaston Weed Control Council is unable to direct treatments towards native species, and it would be up to the homeowner to contact a licensed aquatic herbicide applicator to determine options for private treatments. Per Dominion’s Shoreline Management Plan, it's up to the applicator’s discretion on whether the plant is causing enough of a navigational issue to warrant treatment.  They have their own set of guidelines in relation to their herbicide license and what they can or can't treat.

For those in which a nuisance species is identified, your form entry will result in your property being added to our running database. Being added to the database is no guarantee of Lake Gaston Weed Control Council funded treatment, but just a reassurance that your property will be part of any future treatment discussions. All treatment programs for 2025 have been finalized, therefore, additional areas cannot be added this year. However, homeowners do have the option of contacting a licensed aquatic herbicide applicator to determine options for private treatments.

For private treatment options, I have provided contact information for the two companies utilized by the Weed Control Council; however, there are several options within the Lake Gaston area that are not listed below. It is important to note that Dominion only allows for licensed applicators to treat Lake Gaston’s shorelines.

AquaServices is the company that currently applies lyngbya treatments for the WCC, and PLM is the company that currently applies hydrilla treatments for the WCC.  See contact information below:

Aqua Services, Inc. - www.asilakemanagement.com

Toll Free: 1 (888) 669-3337

Professional Lake Management – www.plmcorp.net

Local: (252) 586-2900

Toll Free: 1 (866) 403-5259

Please feel free to reach out to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any specific questions or concerns.

Thanks,

Jess