Florida is home to a lot of different varieties of indigenous vegetation, many of which are being overwhelmed by non-native, invasive species imported from abroad and accidentally released into the environment. Some of these weeds also choke waterways and provide larval habitat for certain types of aggressive nuisance mosquitoes. Two of these, which Hillsborough County strives to eliminate wherever they are found, are Water Hyacinth, and Water Lettuce.

Water Hyacinth (eichhornia crassipes) is most easily identified when it is in bloom. Although it can be quite attractive with its lavender flowers, (above left), it spreads quickly, and can completely take over an entire pond, lake or waterway in a matter of weeks.

Water Lettuce (pistia stratiotes), as the name suggests, resembles a small head of wild lettuce when viewed up close. At a distance, it usually appears bright green and blankets the water surface.

Although there are other types of aquatic weed which can be unattractive and cause a nuisance to water recreational activities, the Mosquito Control Section does not control them and is not authorized to spray them. Citizens with Duckweed and Algae problems are advised to consult with a licensed weed control contractor. A variety of terrestrial, all terrain, amphibious and aquatic vehicles and vessels are put into service to control these plants, including two Diamondback airboats. A 454-425 Horsepower GM Engine powers a 3-blade 80-inch propeller on the back of the 16 foot long stainless steel hull. A 100-gallon fiberglass tank allows the operator to mix up sufficient pesticide to treat an acre of weeds at a time.

The boats are towed to the treatment sites on trailers by Dodge 2500 turbo-diesel 4X4 trucks, and offloaded into the water wherever a makeshift “boat ramp” is available.