Invasive Giant Salvinia Plant in Lake Wateree

SCDES is seeking the public’s assistance in reporting sightings of the invasive giant salvinia (Salvinia molesta) plant that’s been identified in Lake Wateree, which is located in Fairfield, Kershaw and Richland counties. 
Because of its destructive impact on aquatic ecosystems and interference with boating, fishing and recreation, giant salvinia is prohibited in the United States by federal law. 

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GIANT SALVINIA
Salvinia molesta

Giant Salvinia

Giant salvinia is a small, free floating, introduced aquatic fern. It usually appears as branched stems with floating leaves in whorls of 3.  Floating leaves are light to medium green, suborbicular, and 1/2 to 1 inch long and wide. The upper surface is covered with dense, stiff white hairs with distinct "egg beater" shaped tips.

If found, contact SCDES Aquatic Nuisance Plants immediately:

803-898-0033
invasiveweeds@des.sc.gov
Submit a sighting report

 

A dense infestation of Giant Salvinia

South Carolina law requires individuals to possess a Commercial Pesticide Applicators License in Category 5, Aquatic Pest Control, before they apply aquatic herbicides if the work is done for compensation on the property of another. A license is also required, regardless of ownership, if the application is made to an area where public access to the treated site is expected. Private swimming lakes, where the public would exposed to the treated waters, are the most obvious example of the latter requirement. On all public facilities, such as golf courses, driving ranges, subdivisions, condominium/apartment complexes and mobile home parks, applicators are required to possess a Category 5 License to apply aquatic pesticides.