Environmental experts are asking the public for help in locating a new invasive plant that's been found in Chautauqua Lake.
Crews doing an aquatic plant survey today were keeping their eyes peeled for any water chestnut plants. Traces of the plant were discovered in 2 locations last weekend, the first time the plant has ever been found in the lake. So now, experts are combing the lake, lookiing for any other plants.
The water chesnut is identified by distinctive bright green leaves with jagged edges. The plant is rooted in the sediment, with the leaves floating on the surface. It's explosive growth in shallow water is a major concern.
Chautauqua County Watershed Coordinator Jeff Diers said, "This would really choke off those areas with very dense vegetation."
Next Tuesday, county officials will ask boaters, kayakers and canoests to join together to survey the lake, looking for the invasive plant.
Residents who spot the plant are asked to call the Watershed Hotline. North County 716-363-4499, Mayville 716-753-4499, or South County 716-661-7499.
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