Choking on Hydrilla

Hydrilla or water thyme is an underwater perennial herb from India originally brought into the states for fish tanks but worked it's way into lakes, rivers, and streams. They grow together and form large mats. Seventy percent of Florida's fresh water drainage basins are infested with the stuff. Hydrilla was spotted in Maine in 2002 and has sense taken hold of our freshwater areas choking out native plant and wildlife .

To elaborate on their growing habits, they start out in the dark areas, and work their way into shallower waters. Using the mats they form, they block out sunlight and become the only thing that grows, making native plant life die out and gradually grinding the food chain to a halt. The hydrilla's has stems that branch at the surface with small pointed leaves which form large, floating mats.

I happen to think that hydrilla is a serious threat to the environment and to fishing (for food and leisure). Since I'm someone who enjoys fishing (and eating the ones I've caught) this is a threat.