Comments sought on invasive plants at lake

Friday, Aug. 22, 2003 | 9:49 a.m.

Officials at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area are asking the public to comment on a proposal for managing invasive plants in the area.

A management plan is under way to help officials evaluate and control known invasive plants and weeds.

Invasive plants, also called exotics, nonindigenous or non-natives, are considered an ecological problem.

Lake Mead is now experiencing an increasing invasive plant problem, especially with 40-year low lake levels. The habitat for these plants has increased dramatically, officials said.

Invasive plants can alter or destroy intact natural ecosystems, resulting in an irreversible loss of diversity among native plants.

National Park Service laws and policies dictate that alien plants be identified and eradicated where possible.

The National Park Service is in the process of preparing an environmental assessment. Written comments should be sent by Sept. 19 to: Superintendent, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Attention: Compliance Office, 601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, Nevada, 89005.

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