Helicopters are expected to hover over Lake Bistineau next week for an aerial herbicide application to treat giant salvinia. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has scheduled the aerial application for Monday, November 21 to address the large, open areas containing the invasive plant.
The aerial application will be used to treat selected areas where giant salvinia growth is particularly heavy, encompassing roughly 500 acres in total. Designated spray areas include the Catfish Pond, between Fairview Point and the mouth of Little Red Chute Bayou.
With cooler temperatures forecasted, results may be delayed, but the effectiveness of the herbicide will not be impacted. Results are expected to be visible within three days, but it could take up to three weeks for the plants to sink completely.
These aquatic herbicides are approved for use by the EPA.
Recreational activities will not be restricted on the lake. LDWF personnel will be on hand to ensure that no boaters are in the areas to be sprayed.