The Hydrophyte Volume 20 Issue 1

The South Florida Aquatic Plant Management Society

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Highlights Planning for the Future

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Importance of Aquatic Plants for our Local Wildlife Habitats

7

Plant the Right Tree in the Right Place

13

Florida Lake Regions: Classification System

16

Florida State Wetland Program

19

www.sfapms.org

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President’s Message

Board Members - 2016

Greetings & Happy New Year!

Officers 2016

As I embark on this new journey as president of SFAPMS, there are several goals I intend to focus on during my term as President. They include: Educational Topics, CEUs, Increasing Membership and Scholarship.

Norma Cassinari, President

(334) 741-9393

Linda Wolonick, Secretary/

(954) 370-0041

I would like to take this moment to thank Craig Smith as the past President and our board members for their hard work and commitment to their various roles and responsibilities over the past year, I’m going to have some big shoes to fill thanks to Craig!

President

Rose Bechard-Butman

(954) 382-9766

I am honored to work with a group of talented individuals who are dedicated and engaged in the aquatic management industry. I consider myself very fortunate to have this chance to represent our members and will work hard to meet your expectations.

James Boggs

(352) 521-3538

Andy Fuhrman

(954) 382-9766

Lyn Gettys, PhD

(954) 577-6331

John Selby

(954) 612-9664

Michael Shaner

(813) 267-5650

Mark Weinrub

(954) 972-8126

Steven Weinsier

(954) 382-9766

Start making plans to attend our general meeting on February 25, 2016. More information to follow…

Thank you for entrusting me with this opportunity.

Treasurer Craig Smith, Immediate Past

(561) 301-8326

Board Members 2016

Norma Cassinari, SFAPMS / President

The Francis E. “Chil” Rossbach Scholarship Fund

Funds from the scholarship are used to help defray costs for students taking classes related to the study of aquatic environmental sciences or related areas. The scholarship is open to anyone, and all are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted throughout the year and the scholarship awarded when a suitable candidate is found. Money raised by the Society during the year partially goes to fund this scholarship, the intent of which is to promote the study of aquatics.

For an application, please go to www.sfapms.org.

Cover Photo: Denise Valentin | Wildlife Photographer

South Florida Aquatic Plant Management Society General Meeting Announcement When: February 25, 2016 8:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. Location: Holy Cross Hospital 4725 North Federal Highway Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33308

Agenda

CEU Credit

8:00 a.m. – 8:15 a.m.

Registration and Refreshments Complimentary Breakfast / Allstate Resource Management

8:15 a.m. – 9:05 a.m.

Health and Safety Issues for Field Personnel Cathy Whitt, Kim Saiswick and Amy Cordeman Holy Cross Hospital

1 Core

9:05 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Aquatic Plant Harvesting Techniques Update Dr. Bruce Richards & Terry Shea / Weedoo Boats

1 Aquatic

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Utilization of Bacteria Inoculation to Reduce Nutrients and Algae Production Jim Burney / Aquatic Vegetation Control

.5 Aquatic

11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Invasive Plant Management Update .5 Natural Area Jim Burney / IPMA (Invasive Plant Management Association)

11:30 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.

Aquatic Plant Identification – New Discoveries Dr. Lyn Gettys / University of Florida

1 Aquatic

12:20 p.m. – 1:10 p.m.

Why and How We Manage Invasive Weeds / Economic and Social Benefits Scott Jackson / Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC

1 Aquatic or 1 Natural Area or 1 Right of Way

1:10 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Complimentary Lunch Sponsored by Syngenta Crop Protection / Scott Jackson

Please call Lydia at (954) 370-0041 or register online at www.sfapms.org 4.5 C.E.U.’s will be available for paid members*

www.sfapms.org

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PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE Florida moves to protect its valuable water resources Florida is known for its beautiful beaches and coastal waters, everglades, lakes, rivers, and freshwater springs, and the state is committed to protecting those water resources.

“Our identity as a state is attached to water,” says Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam. “We must do what we can to protect it.”

Protecting the state’s water assets requires dedicated planning, which begins with identifying the challenges that threaten the health and supply of Florida’s water resources.

While water flows freely and rain falls heavily over Florida at certain times throughout the year, it is not consistent or sustained.

“We receive an average of 176 billion gallons of water per day, either from rainfall or water coming into the state from states to the north,” says Darrell Smith, assistant director of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Office of Agricultural Water Policy. “Almost 65 percent of this water evaporates or transpires through plant growth or recharges the aquifer, and close to 30 percent runs off to coastal waters. Less than 5 percent of this water, however, is being used to meet the demands of Florida’s residents and businesses.”

When Florida receives below-average rainfall, water use in sensitive areas can cause problems. For example, in South Florida’s Northern Everglades

region - a mostly surface water system - low water levels may not yield enough water for competing uses, like the natural systems, public supply and agriculture.

The opposite can also occur.

“There are times when we have too much water,” Smith says.

“When there are extreme rainfall events, hurricanes or tropical

fertilizer is the centerpiece of BMPs. By using the right fertilizer product, applying it in the right place, at the right time, and in the right amount, agricultural producers can maximize the use of that fertilizer while minimizing its impact on the environment.

Irrigation management is another critical element in both water

THROUGH THE IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND BEST PRACTICES, FLORIDA IS SAVING MORE THAN 1.3 BILLION GALLONS OF WATER PER YEAR. systems, for example, flooding and excess water can cause serious challenges, as well.”

INTO THE FUTURE

For the last quarter of a century, the agriculture industry in Florida has been implementing water conservation and water quality protection programs throughout the state. Today more than 9.5 million acres of privately owned agriculture lands are participating in the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ approved Best Management Practices (BMP) programs. These BMPs are based on the latest research from universities and the United States Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service (USDA - ARS) to help protect and conserve water, according to Smith.

Managing the application of

Credit: Blair Thomas | Florida Farm Bureau

resource protection and conservation. Through the BMP program, the department helps agricultural producers evaluate the efficiency of their irrigation systems. Cost-share programs can assist in the deployment of weather stations and soil moisture sensors, which can increase overall irrigation efficiency.

BMPs also emphasize the use of water control structures to manage the flow of excess water from rainfall events. As a result of these and other measures implemented by agricultural producers, Florida is saving more than 1.3 billion gallons of water per year.

“We are optimistic about the future of the state’s water resources,” Smith says. “Florida has one of the most progressive water protection programs in the country. Commissioner Putnam and many other state leaders have continued to make water a priority.”

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www.sfapms.org

AQUATIC WEED SOLUTIONS,

CLEAR RESULTS. Look to Nufarm for all your aquatic weed control needs. Our growing portfolio now includes Clipper ® and Tradewind® – offering more solutions for nearly any aquatic weed challenge.

SELECTIVE HERBICIDES AquaSweep™ • Clipper ® Solution® WS • Tahoe® 3A Tradewind® • WEEDestroy® AM-40

NON-SELECTIVE HERBICIDES Aqua Neat® • Nufarm Diquat SPC 2L Polaris® • Polaris® AC Complete

To learn more about our line of aquatic herbicides, contact Clark Boyd at 770-365-0509 or clark.boyd@us.nufarm.com.

www.nufarm.com/USIVM ©2015 Nufarm. Always read and follow label instructions. AquaSweep™, Aqua Neat®, Polaris®, Solution®, Tahoe®, and WEEDestroy® are trademarks of Nufarm. Clipper® and Tradewind® are trademarks of Valent U.S.A. Corporation.

www.sfapms.org

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The Importance of Aquatic Plants for our Local Wildlife Habitats Aquatic Plants There are many native aquatic and wetland plants found in South Florida. Aquatic plants play an important role for wildlife habitats. Wildlife habitats include water, food, shelter and space, and our rivers, ponds, lakes, wetlands and Everglades are one of our most important wildlife habitats.

Aquatic plants are among the most productive ecosystems in the world.

Thousands of species, ranging from birds to panthers and manatees depend on Florida’s freshwater habitats. It is very important that we preserve the healthy habitats for native fish, wildlife and plants. The state’s population is increasing daily and our freshwater habitats are in peril from over development. Also of concern are non-native plants that displace native plants, disrupt the waters natural process and degrades wildlife habitat.

Water Water is important to everyone and everything on this planet. Aquatic plants reduce water pollution by sequestering carbon dioxide and fertilizers (nitrogen and phosphorus) which improves water quality. Aquatic plants also increase or decrease oxygen levels in the water based upon availability of light. Too many floating plants may block the sunlight from reaching submerged oxygen-producing plants below them.

Food Food is also essential to all living animals and plants. Food can be plants, animals and/or nutrients in the soil.

Aquatic plants convert nutrients in the water and soil into plant matter which then becomes food for both fish and plant eaters. Fish, insects, snails and other crustaceans thrive in aquatic plant beds, which provides food for birds and waterfowl. Many of the submerged plants produce seeds and tubers (roots) which are eaten by waterfowl. The carbohydrates and oxygen produced by plants are so important to wildlife, that without them, wildlife living near, on or in the water might die.

Shelter Aquatic plants provide both shelter and cover for both wildlife and their food sources (fish, insects and other invertebrates that are eaten by local and migrating wildlife). Shelter is considered the wildlife’s home or nest. It also includes “cover” which can be a group of plants, leaves, rocks, water or shade where wildlife can hide or move without being seen by other wildlife or predators. Birds in the wetlands need cover and shelter to raise their young. Cover also helps wildlife to hide from weather conditions. All living things need shelter.

Space Animals and plants must have space in order to survive. If too many animals live, eat and drink water in the same space, those items can be used up and the animals may not survive. If plants overcrowd other plants, then they don’t get the necessary light, water or nutrients they need. Overcrowding leads to competition for food which can then lead to malnutrition and the spread of disease and parasites.

Credit: Denise Valentin | Wildlife and Nature Photographer

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www.sfapms.org

www.sfapms.org

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Plant of the Month Proserpinaca palustris L. Mermaid-weed Description: Mermaid–weed is a low herbaceous plant perennial with simple or branched creeping stems. Being a member of the watermilfoil family, this plant has the characteristics of a feather-like leaf structure. The submersed leaves are alternate 2.5-4.5 cm long and deeply pinnatifid or divided into 8-14 paired linear divisions. Emersed leaves take on a different appearance becoming lanceolate, 4-7 cm long and 1-1.5 cm wide with serrated leaf margins. These emersed leaves remain alternate, but soon develop a petiole up to 1cm long. Small inconspicuous, symmetrical, green to whitish flowers are found in the upper leaf axils either alone or in groups of two to five.

The fruit is nut-like three seeded and about 4mm long.

Reproduction occurs by seed germination.

Habitat: Mermaid-weed is a relatively common species found in transient ponds, bogs, and marshes, as well as disturbed canal banks and irrigation ditches.

Distribution and Importance: This species is found primarily in the southeastern United States, but does not occur as far west as Texas.

Mermaid-weed is a native aquatic that can grow profusely in irrigation ditches occasionally hindering water flow.

Wildlife Utilization Value: This plant has limited use by wildlife except for providing protective cover for small invertebrates.

Photo: Recently observed in Miami-Dade County by Jana Eckhardt/Allstate Resource Management Article: Bureau of Aquatic Plant Management/Florida Department of Natural Resources, Aquatic and Wetland Plants of Florida (Mermaid Weed)

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www.sfapms.org

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2016 Calendar of Events UF / IFAS Open House Ft Lauderdale Research & Education Center Broward County Extension January 23, 2016 www.ifas.ufl.edu FAPMS / Board of Directors Meeting SWFMD, Kissimmee Field Station January 26, 2016 www.fapms.org SFAPMS, Board of Directors Meeting January 28, 2016 www.sfapms.org SFAPMS, General Meeting Holy Cross Hospital, Fort Lauderdale Thursday, February 25, 2016 www.sfapms.org FLEPPC, Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council Annual Conference/Crown Plaza Melbourne March 9 – 11, 2016 www.fleppc.org BROWARD COUNTY Water Matters Day Tree Tops Park / Davie March 12, 2016 www.broward.org FAPMS / Board of Directors Meeting SWFMD, Kissimmee Field Station April 19, 2016 www.fapms.org SFAPMS, General Meeting Location: TBA Thursday, June 30, 2016 www.sfapms.org FAPMS / Board of Directors Meeting SWFMD, Kissimmee Field Station June 12, 2016 www.fapms.org

www.sfapms.org

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Plant the Right Tree in the Right Place When planting, please consider where the tree will be located in relation to overhead and underground utility lines. (The location of these lines should determine the kind of tree to plant and site selection.) The mature tree must have enough space away from power lines and in an area large enough to accommodate the canopy and root system.

Planting tall growing trees under or near power lines will ultimately require pruning to maintain safe clearance from the wires. Trees toppling into overhead power lines can become a public safety hazard and disrupt your electric service. Therefore it is best not to plant tall growing trees under or near power lines.

You should not attempt to trim any vegetation growing near or on any overhead power lines. Only specially trained line clearing professionals should work around power lines.

Always Consider the Ultimate Mature Size when Planting

10 years 6 years

3 years

Large Trees

Large Palms

30' minimum setback

Medium Trees

plus 3 feet

20' minimum setback

maximum palm frond length

Small trees and shrubs may be planted adjacent to power lines

Trees Shown at Mature Height

Recommended Trees for South Florida: These trees would be suitable for planting adjacent to overhead distribution powerlines Geiger Tree

(Cordia sebestena) This slow growing tree has striking orange blossoms in the spring. Whether multistemmed or with a single trunk, this tree works well as a specimen or patio tree.

Growth Rate: Slow Maturity Height x Spread: 15-20' x 20' Foliage: Evergreen

Silver Buttonwood

Spanish Stopper

(Eugenia spp.)

Narrow canopy and the ability to grow in limited soil space makes this tree ideal for parking lot islands and small landscapes.

Drought-tolerant once established.

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate Maturity Height x Spread: 15-20' x 15' Foliage: Evergreen

Glaucous Cassia

(Conocarpus erectus var. sericeus) Silver to blue-green foliage provides accent as a small tree or buffer.

Multi-stemmed, tough tree adapts well to urban areas.

(Cassia surattensis) Beautiful yellow flowers on an outstanding small tree. Prune to maintain tree form. Ideal for small landscapes as an accent tree.

Growth Rate: Moderate Maturity Height x Spread: 15-20' x 20'-30' Foliage: Evergreen

Growth Rate: Moderate Maturity Height x Spread: 15-20’ x 15-20’ Foliage: Evergreen

www.FPL.com/trees

South Florida Aquatic Plant Management Society

2016 MEMBERSHIP FORM MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS  



Hydrophyte Magazine (distribution 2,500, plus online availability) Three General Meetings Per Year (February, June & October) - 4 - 5 CEU’s Offered at All General Meetings - Continental Breakfast & Lunch Included at All General Meetings Network of Colleagues and Contacts for Exchanging Ideas and Services

Membership Rate $45 We Accept Credit Cards!

Renew Online at WWW.SFAPMS.ORG

Questions?

Call: (954) 370-0041 SFAPMS Federal ID No. 65-0695256

PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION BELOW...

First Name: _____________ MI: _____ Last Name: ________________________ Telephone: _(_______)_______________ Professional Designation(s): _______ Company Name: ____________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________ Ste/Apt No: _____ City: ________________________________ State: _______ Zip: _____________ Email Address:______________________________________________________ Please make checks payable to SFAPMS and mail completed form to: (SFAPMS) South Florida Aquatic Plant Management Society 8930 State Road 84, No. 316 Davie, FL 33324 Phone: (954) 370-0041 • Fax (954) 382-1893 E-mail: info@sfapms.org

South Florida Aquatic Plant Management Society

2016 SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Become an SFAPMS Gold, Silver or Bronze level Sponsor!

New ways to help support your applicator run society options to get more out of your advertising dollar!

Breakfast Sponsor

Bronze Sponsor

Lunch Sponsor

Silver Sponsor

Gold Sponsor

Sponsorship Recognition

(One Meeting)

(One Meeting)

(12 Months)

(12 Months)

(12 Months)

Cost

$250

$750

$750

$1,000

$1,250

Sign at Meetings

Breakfast Table

Lunch Podium

Registration

Registration

Registration

Exhibit Space at Meetings (Table Top)

—

Recognition at Meeting

Recognition on SFAPMS Website

Banner on Home Page with Hotlink

Business Card in Hydrophyte (4 issues)

—

One Annual Membership with SFAPMS

—

—

Quarter Page Ad in Hydrophyte (4 issues)

—

—

Half Page Ad in Hydrophyte (4 issues)

—

—

Full Page Ad in Hydrophyte (4 issues)

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Four Memberships

— — —

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Additional Opportunities

Hydrophyte Advertising Quarter Page Ad (4 Issues)

$200

General Meeting Exhibitor Package - $250

Half Page Ad (4 Issues)

$400

 

Full Page Ad (4 Issues)

$800

Business Card Ad (4 Issues)

$125

Online Payment Option Available!

WWW.SFAPMS.ORG



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6’ Exhibit Table at 1 General Meeting Recognition & Link to Your Website on the SFAPMS Website Post Attendee List for Sponsored General Meeting

Donation-Chil Rossbach Scholarship Fund

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Florida Lake Regions: A Classification System Where Does Your Lake Fit In? The Lake Region Classification System can be a useful tool for managing your lake.

By reading this article, you can learn: How and why the Florida Lake Regions project was developed; How to compare your lake with other lakes in its Lake Region; and How the Lake Region Classification System can be useful to you.

www.sfapms.org

www.sfapms.org

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You Can Use the Lake Regions Classification System to...

The Lake Region Classification System is just one way of grouping lakes.

For more information or to discuss this subject, call the toll free number: 1-800-LAKEWATCH (1-800-525-3928).

Questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome.

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www.sfapms.org

Florida State Wetland Program Summary

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