CDFA Hydrilla Eradication Program Seeking Public Comment

Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) is a highly invasive aquatic plant that has the capacity, by forming dense mats that restrict dissolved oxygen levels, to disrupt many of the water-based activities that are synonymous with Lake County. Statewide efforts to eradicate Hydrilla have been generally successful, with the invasive plant fully eradicated in 15 California Counties. Lake is one of three counties currently affected by Hydrilla infestation, and the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is asking for your help to achieve the goal of getting Clear Lake and all California waters 100% Hydrilla free.

Clear Lake is the defining feature of our County, and a healthy lake supports the well-being and economic resilience of every resident.

Since 1994, CDFA has sought to keep our lake healthy and bass fishing and other water-based industries vibrant by responsibly managing the spread of Hydrilla. Periodically, CDFA is called upon to prepare an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for its entire Hydrilla Eradication Project, in accordance with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). They are currently receiving public comments toward a new draft EIR, and their comment period ends February 16, at 5 pm.

There will be a public scoping meeting on Wednesday January 29, from 3:30 to 5 pm, in Lakeport City Hall where state officials and others will be present to address your comments, concerns, and questions as they work to develop the updated EIR.

What: CDFA Open House-Style Public Scoping Meeting regarding the statewide Hydrilla Eradication

Project

Where: Lakeport City Hall, 225 Park St., Lakeport, CA, 95453

When: Wednesday, January 29, 3:30 to 5 p.m.

CDFA’s Notice of Preparation (NOP) is available at https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/ plant/ipc/hydrilla/pdfs/Hydrilla-NOP.pdf.

If you are unavailable to attend, written comments can be submitted to CDFA at the following mailing and email addresses:

Attention: Michelle Dennis, Branch Chief Integrated Pest Control

California Department of Food and Agriculture, 2800 Gateway Oaks Drive, Sacramento, CA 95832

Email: IPCinfo@cdfa. ca.gov. Please direct any questions regarding Aquatic Plant Management activities in Lake County to the Invasive Species Program Coordinator, Angela De Palma-Dow, at the Water Resources Department, at (707)263-2344, or email Angela.DePalmaDow@lakecountyca.gov. To stay up to date on activities and outreach, follow the Lake County Water Resources Department on Facebook, @lakecountywater.