Quarterly Progress Report: Second Quarter FY 2009

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Grant ID: X7-96433105-1 (Hydrilla/ Hygrophila Demonstration Projects - Osceola County, FL)
                                   
Project description and Goals:        
This project is a combination of studies that will result in improved water quality and natural habitat in Osceola County lakes.  Hydrilla and Hygrophila are exotic invasive weeds that are dominating the lakes aquatic ecosystem, shading out natural vegetation, reducing oxygen level, increasing the amount of sediments, and impacting flood control in lakes and canals. The project objectives are to evaluate the effectiveness of Experimental Use Permit herbicides, biological controls and application methods of herbicides in the treatment and control of Hydrilla and Hygrophila using small-scale fieldwork, large-scale field demonstrations and public outreach on the progress and findings.

Participants:  Hilda Hatzell, EPA Project Officer, Region 4
Eleanor Foerste, Project Manager, Osceola County

Reporting period:      Second Quarter, EPA Fiscal Year 2009 January 1 – March 31, 2009

Project activities during reporting period: 

  • What work was accomplished for this reporting quarter?

Element 1

  • Monitoring continued on retention ponds on Pleasant Hill Road.
  • Both EUP compounds (FL08-EUP-01 and quinclorac) showed favorable results on hydrilla control in the retention ponds on Pleasant Hill Road.

Element 2

  • Large-scale management activities on Lakes Cypress, Hatchineha, and Kissimmee were initiated during this quarter.
  • Evaluating demonstration treatments of endothall on various lakes, endothall and penoxsulam combinations on Lake Toho and Kissimmee, and endothall and imazamox combinations on Lake Cypress and Hatchineha.
  • Evaluating plots with mixtures of hydrilla and native plants to determine differences in plant biomass pre- and post-treatments.
  • Planning a drip application for hygrophila on Shingle Creek. 

Element 3 Task 1

  • Current Mt bioherbicide development is focused on an alternate proprietary pathway with potentially much improved economics for production.  This development has been slowed at some level by delayed regulatory approval for transfer of pathogen to potential commercial fermentation partners.

Current Mt strain shows better virulence on several aquatic weed species versus an alternate strain previously shown to be compatible with new production protocols. 

  • However, current strain also appears compatible based on initial laboratory examination.
  • Mt bioherbicide can positively interact with a combination of penoxsulam and endothall herbicides for potentially improved integrated control of hydrilla in late fall applications. 

Element 3 Task 2

  • Developed an Ecological Niche model to predict potential distribution of hygrophila in its native and exotic habitat.

Element 3 Task 3

  • Surveying aquatic macrophytes in Lake Bisina, Uganda.
  • Analyzing DNA from hydrilla samples.
  • Prepared checklists of insects associated with hydrilla in Burundi and Uganda.
  • Initiated efforts to colonize two species of Polypedilum midges in Burundi.  Based on larval mouthpart morphology, these insects are possible herbivores of hydrilla.

Element 4

  • 2009 Field Day and Teacher Workshop are being planned.
  • Presentations on the project were given to community groups including Kiwanis and Rotary.  A presentation was also delivered to the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners.
  • Exhibits were displayed at the Osceola County Fair and the Kissimmee Cow Town Days event.
  • The project website was restructured to include new information and a new format that is easier to navigate.
  • A “viral marketing” technique for public outreach is being utilized in a future pilot project in Osceola County.
  • Significant Findings this Quarter?
    • Development of an Ecological Niche model to predict potential distribution of hygrophila in its native and exotic habitat.
    • We have identified areas in Lake Tanganyika near Bujumbura where the two putative herbivores (Polypedilum dewulfi and P. wittei) of hydrilla are relatively more abundant than at other sampling sites.  Earlier, our major problem was that these two species were not commonly recovered – now that we have areas where they are more abundant, it will give us a greater opportunity for laboratory colonization
  • Is the project work on schedule?
    • This quarter?
    For Element 3, Task 1, pending APHIS permit approval for commercial partners confirmed in late Q1 has postponed some aspects of initial laboratory mesocosm evaluations of Mt materials produced through the new production pathway.
  • For the project? 

As noted in previous reports, Element 3, Task 1 is behind relative to the original work plan due to technical challenges associated with improving bioherbicide performance to cost-effective, consistent levels of virulence for final commercialization.

  • Does the new schedule require a time extension?

No. However, we are evaluating progress on activities and deliverables to date and preparing a request to revise the workplan and budget for the 2010 year, the final year of the project. We will not be requesting additional funds but will be requesting consideration for adjustments to categories.

  • Is there a change in the Grantee’s Authorized Representative or any of the key contacts?

Senior Biologist, Sarah Berger has resigned.  Her last day is April 24, 2009.

Project spending for reporting period:
$355,195.20 was expended this quarter, with total project costs at 3/31/1009 $1,633,822.67.  Project balance is $ 2,881,000 – 1,633,822.67= $1,247,177.33.

 

EPA Demonstration Project on Hydrilla and Hygrophila
in the Upper Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
EPA Grant   #X796433105-1

Reporting period:   Second Quarter, EPA Fiscal Year 2009 January 1 – March 31, 2009

Person Reporting: Sarah Berger, Osceola County  
                                Dr. William Haller, University of Florida

Element:  Element 1: Development and Testing of New Aquatic Herbicide

Project activities during reporting period:

  • What work was accomplished for this reporting quarter?

The storm-water pond located at the corner of Stewart Rd and Pleasant Hill Rd was treated on April 30, 2008 with FL EUP number FL08-EUP-01 at a rate of 50ppb.  Plant heights were measured on a bi-weekly basis and this continued through the current quarter.  The trend is shown below.

Plant height meassurements for Steward Rd and Pleasant Hill Rd storm-water pond.

The storm-water pond located at the corner of Granada Blvd and Pleasant Hill Rd was treated on June 9, 2008 with FL EUP number FL08-EUP-02 at a rate of 400ppb. Plant heights were measured on a bi-weekly basis and this continued through the current quarter.  The data is shown below.

Plant height measurements for storm-water pond located at the corner of Granada Blvd. and Pleasant Hill Rd.

The storm-water pond located across from Pleasant Hill Estates on the east side of Pleasant Hill Rd (referred to as “Oak Tree Pond”) was treated on June 9, 2008 with FL EUP number FL08-EUP-02 at a rate of 400ppb.  Plant heights were measured on a bi-weekly basis and this continued through the current quarter.  The data is shown below.

Plant height measurements from storm-water pond located at Pleasant Hill Estates

The trends for both ponds treated with Quinclorac are shown below.

Trends for ponds treated with Quinclorac

  • What Milestones have been met for your Element?

Element 1, Task 1 Milestone:
Hiring/training of personnel will occur in Year 1 and 3 to 4 treatment sites will be located for herbicide treatment the first and second quarter of year 2007.  An additional 3 to 4 sites containing different native aquatic plants will be treated annually (spring) of each year and plant communities monitored for up to 1 year following herbicide application.  Hiring completed April 16, 2007.  Training will be a continuing process.  Two sites were treated and are still being evaluated.  One site from 2008 is still being evaluated as well.

Element 1, Task 2 Milestones:
In the first two years, 5-10 compounds will be tested annually for activity against hydrilla and hygrophila.  Concentration/exposure times (CET) will be conducted on these products with the greatest potential for future registration, as well as some of the older products (1-2 products per year).  Greenhouse and shadehouse studies (step 3 above), and phytotoxicity studies will be conducted on the greatest potential for future registration, which may be two to three products annually. Completed throughout year but testing still ongoing.

  • Were there any significant problems encountered? No.
  • Is the project work on schedule?
    • This quarter?  Yes.
  • For the project?  Yes.
  • Are there any significant findings this quarter?

One EUP herbicide, FL08-EUP-01, is showing longer lasting control under field conditions.

  • What is the future direction of the work?

Continue to monitor and evaluate EUP herbicides and combinations of EUP herbicides and registered aquatic herbicides in the field and in the lab.

  • Is there a change in the key contacts for this element?

Senior Biologist, Sarah Berger has resigned.  Her last day is April 24, 2009.

 

EPA Demonstration Project on Hydrilla and Hygrophila
 in the Upper Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
EPA Grant   #X796433105-1

Reporting period:   Second Quarter, EPA Fiscal Year 2009 Jan 1 – March 31, 2009

Person Reporting:  Michael D. Netherland, US Army Engineer Research and Development Center

Element:  Element 2: Evaluation of Currently Registered Herbicides for Control of Hydrilla

Project activities during reporting period:

  • What work was accomplished for this reporting quarter? 
  • We are evaluating efficacy of demonstration treatments in Lake Tohopekaliga that combined penoxsulam and endothall. Treatments were conducted in mid-October and they included protected sites near Goblet’s Cove, Scotty’s Cove, and Cypress Cove.  Applications were initiated in mid-October.  For the combination work endothall was applied at a rate of 1 ppm and penoxsulam was applied at a rate of 20 ppb.  Water samples were collected in conjunction with the treatment and efficacy assessments that are ongoing.  The March 2009 evaluation suggests that the Scotty’s Cove treatment (endothall alone) has resulted in significant re-growth with hydrilla near the surface throughout the cove. In Goblet’s Cove and Cypress Cove, which received combinations of endothall and penoxsulam, hydrilla is beginning to grow but the plants remain small (< 12 in.) and near the bottom.  We will continue to evaluate the recovery of hydrilla in these sites.
  • We prepared a Powerpoint presentation and an interim report for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission and the US Fish and Wildlife Service that provided information on endothall residues, water quality, and initial plant response to the large-scale endothall treatments applied in December and early January.  This report was prepared in response to concerns regarding the endangered apple snail kite.  A final report to this group will be provided at the next Interagency Governmental Meeting.
  • Hydrilla/vallisneria/Illinois pondweed grids (2 x 2 m) were established on Lakes Hatchineha (n = 12) and Kissimmee (n = 12).  Pretreatment biomass samples (n = 4) were collected from each grid and processed. Hydrilla/vallisneria plots were also established in the large vallisneria bed in the western portion of Lake Cypress. Post-treatment biomass samples were collected and processed from all hydrilla/vallisneria grids that were established on Lake Tohopekaliga in the summer of 2008. Statistical analyses are to be performed to determine differences in plant biomass within grids pre- and post-treatment.  Results of these analyses will likely be reported in the next quarterly report.
  • Continued to monitor water quality, herbicide residues, and treatment longevity throughout various treatment zones in Lake Tohopekaliga following the December 2008 treatments.  There is little evidence of hydrilla recovery in the large treatment blocks at this point in time. The treatment zone and littoral area in question covers over 15,000 acres (Figure 1).

Treatment blocks and sample stations associated with large-scale endothall applications from December 2008 and January 2009.

Treatment blocks and sample stations associated with large-scale endothall applications from December 2008 and January 2009.

Treatment blocks and sample stations associated with large-scale endothall applications from December 2008 and January 2009.

Treatment blocks and sample stations associated with large-scale endothall applications from December 2008 and January 2009.

  • Large-scale hydrilla control operations were initiated in late March and April on Lakes Cypress, Hatchineha, Jackson, and Kissimmee. The bulk of the treatments were conducted with the contact herbicide endothall, and residues, water quality, and efficacy data are being collected in conjunction with the applications.  In Lake Cypress and Hatchineha, demonstration treatments that included a combination of imazamox and endothall were applied.  Moreover, a demonstration treatment that included a combination of penoxsulam and endothall was applied to Lake Kissimmee. These demonstration treatment blocks were greater than 150 acres, and this should allow us to compare efficacy, selectivity, and treatment longevity compared to the standard Aquathol treatments alone.
  • We visited a site on Shingle Creek with a significant Hygrophila infestation.  This site looks amenable to a drip application and we are working with FWC and a private entity to get permits for a demonstration treatment of this area in the upcoming quarter.
  • Addressing review comments for an article entitled “Response of Hydrilla to Various Field Concentration and Exposure Time Scenarios with the Herbicide Endothall.” Once revisions have been incorporated, this article will be sent out for peer-review to a scientific journal.
  • Addressing review comments for an article entitled “Response of Hydrilla to Three Acetolactate Synthase Inhibitors.”  Once revisions have been incorporated, this article will be sent out for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
  • What Milestones have been met for your Element?
    • Large-scale endothall applications in the early spring (late March, 2009) on Lakes Cypress and Hatchineha met the project objective for evaluation of the impacts of treatment timing on efficacy and selectivity.  Prior large-scale efforts with endothall during this project have included early fall applications (early October) in shallow water, late fall applications (mid-December), late winter applications (early March), and mid-Spring applications (mid-April).  We will compare these different treatments for herbicide residue behavior, treatment efficacy, and treatment selectivity.  We will also compare these against the December 2008 applications for both longevity and selectivity.
    • The use of treatment combinations of endothall and penoxsulam and endothall and imazamox in more open water sites met the project objective of determining if combinations may provide enhanced efficacy, improved selectivity, or better treatment longevity compared to standard Aquathol treatments alone.  Based on these results, future treatment recommendations can be refined.
  • Were there any significant problems encountered?  No.
  • Is the project work on schedule?  Yes.
  • This quarter?  Yes.
  • For the project?

Overall project work is on schedule.  In working with currently registered herbicides, we have made the decision to work as closely as possible with operational treatments.  This puts some of the work ahead of schedule and some behind.  We are still looking for favorable water flow conditions to conduct a drip application strategy for hydrilla control in Osceola County.  Overall project goals are being met on a timely basis.

  • What is the future direction of the work?

We will be involved in rigorous monitoring of the large-scale endothall treatments that have been initiated on the Kissimmee Chain and Lake Jackson.  As the winter/spring large-scale treatments have now been completed, we will emphasize long-term efficacy and selectivity (vallisneria, Illinois pondweed) following these treatments.  We will also emphasize evaluating the comparative treatment efficacy of combinations of endothall with penoxsulam or imazamox.  Long-term efficacy and hydrilla recovery will remain a strong part of our monitoring program.

Is there a change in the key contacts for this element?

Senior Biologist, Sarah Berger has resigned.  Her last day is April 24, 2009.

 

EPA Demonstration Project on Hydrilla and Hygrophila
in the Upper Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
EPA Grant   #X796433105-1

Reporting period: Second Quarter, EPA Fiscal Year 2009 January 1 – March 31, 2009

Person Reporting:  Mark A. Heilman

Element:  Element 3 Task 1: Demonstration of Hydrilla Control in Osceola County, Florida using Mycoleptodiscus terrestris (Mt), a new contact bioherbicide, for Aquatic Plant management

Project activities during reporting period:

  • What work was accomplished for this reporting quarter? 

Work on Mt bioherbicide has continued to focus on new production protocols for the hydrilla pathogen.  One of the more promising potential protocols involves a proprietary change in culturing technique that is fundamentally different enough versus previous USDA protocols that an additional strain of Mt known to be effectively produced via this alternate pathway is being examined in parallel for production properties and general virulence.  This strain is currently not approved from release from USDA laboratory in Illinois.  Therefore, comparative studies of strain growth and virulence were conducted at USDA facility in the past quarter to examine potential differences between historical Mt strain used for all past field evaluations and the alternate strain.  In terms of general Mt growth in early laboratory evaluations (Figure 2), both strains showed similar dry weight and microsclerotia production indicating that the alternate strain (ST2) could be a viable alternate for the current strain (ST1).  In addition, comparative efficacy of two strains on four different aquatic plant species—hydrilla, egeria, coontail, milfoil—was studied in three-week replicated flask trial at USDA in February under direct supervision by SePRO (Figure 3).  Although overall flask activity was a little lower than some past evaluations at this scale, visual injury trends and dry biomass show some trends between two strains.  For ST1, strong visual injury was consistent at 0.2 mL L-1 test rate for hydrilla and milfoil (correlates to 325 gal/acre in 5 feet of water), and the 0.4 mL L-1 test rate for egeria.  For ST 2, clear visual injury lagged slightly behind ST1 with consistent impact at 0.4 mL L-1 test rate for hydrilla and milfoil and 0.8 mL L-1 test rate for egeria.  Visual trends with coontail were less obvious but biomass readings indicated ST1 was the better performer.

Laboratory Culture Growth Evaluations of Two Different Mt strains (ST 1 – standard strain, and ST-2 – an alternate bioherbicide strain)

Figure 2.  Laboratory Culture Growth Evaluations of Two Different Mt strains (ST 1 – standard strain, and ST-2 – an alternate bioherbicide strain) Figure 3. Impacts of multiple application rates of two different Mt isolates (ST1 and ST2) on dry biomass of apical tips of four different aquatic plant species in laboratory flask culture.

Figure 3.  Impacts of multiple application rates of two different Mt isolates (ST1 and ST2) on dry biomass of apical tips of four different aquatic plant species in laboratory flask culture. 

Plant tissue was grown for 3 weeks after treatment. Milfoil was grown independently from hydrilla, egeria, and coontail that were grown in mixed culture flasks.   Overall, initial efficacy comparisons suggest current strain ST1 is optimal if alternate production pathway can be effectively utilized for this isolate.  Follow-up initial production by USDA using ST1 in alternate pathway has been successful and will be further reported on in the coming quarter.    In last quarterly report, a pond-scale evaluation in the fall of 2008 was described that studied the interaction of Mt with a combination treatment of two chemical herbicides:  penoxsulam and endothall.  Two 700 square foot plots of Mt liquid culture material were applied November 21 in conjunction with a test program examining interaction with a 15 ppb penoxsulam treatment combined with 1 ppm treatment of endothall (site diagram below in Figure 4).  The previous report described that the various treatments collapsed the hydrilla in the test pond (County Corrections facility) but quantification of presence/absence and hydrilla height failed to show significant differences between Mt plots and other areas of the pond at 1 month post treatment.  At 12 weeks post treatment, hydrilla shoot biomass was collected from the two Mt plots (Mt + Pnx&Endo and Mt + Pnx) and reference plot (Pnx&Endo…no Mt).  Significant differences in hydrilla biomass were detected with Mt-treated plots showing nearly 70% less dry biomass than the plot treated only with the chemical herbicide combination.  This result suggests positive interaction between Mt pathogen and integrated chemical herbicide for potentially improved impact on treated hydrilla at least during the winter timeframe of this trial.  Despite suboptimal water temperatures for Mt ranging from 15-19C in January and early February at this site, a positive impact of Mt on hydrilla recovery from chemical treatment was detected.  Further evaluations will be needed with new commercial Mt materials to determine if integrated approach can provide cost-effective performance for potential operational utility under this late season use pattern.Figure 4. Diagram of Fall 2008 Treatment Program in Osceola Corrections Pond using integrated treatments of Mt and the chemical herbicides penoxsulam (Galleon SC) and endothall (Aquathol K) (left). At nearly three months following treatment, reduced hydrilla biomass was noted for two plots treated with Mt bioherbicide.

Figure 4. Diagram of Fall 2008 Treatment Program in Osceola Corrections Pond using integrated treatments of Mt and the chemical herbicides penoxsulam (Galleon SC) and endothall (Aquathol K) (left).  At nearly three months following treatment, reduced hydrilla biomass was noted for two plots treated with Mt bioherbicide.

  • What Milestones have been met for your Element?

The ultimate goal of project is successful field demonstration of cost effective, commercial-scale Mt bioherbicide material in Osceola County.  To date, that has not been accomplished but several promising interactions with traditional and new herbicide technology have been confirmed.  A field demonstration of a commercially-scaled, cost-effective bioherbicide material is a critical goal for the coming project quarter and all laboratory and field site preparations are focused on that goal.Quality assurance review with Dr. Lane Tredway was successfully completed in February.

  • Were there any significant problems encountered?

The project team still awaits a decision from USDA APHIS to allow movement of Mt strain from USDA facility in Peoria, IL to two different potential commercial fermentors.  This permit was anticipated by the end of project Q2 but is lagging. 
                                                                                                                                               

  • If so, what measures were taken to correct the problem?

Multiple conversations by project staff and new commercial partners have occurred with APHIS in the interim to confirm conditions of evaluations for commercial pilot production.  APHIS has verbally expressed comfort that general test conditions for small-scale field evaluation have not changed and does intend to issue permit with date now described as before the end of April.  Initial laboratory evaluations at USDA using new production protocols are being utilized to allow early testing of new Mt materials prior to APHIS approval to move Mt to commercial partners for their scale-up work.  We hope this effort helps bridge the time gap arising from regulatory delay and keep us on track for expanded late spring field demonstration of commercial bioherbicide prototype. With this compressed timeline, environmental conditions for spring field test may be less optimal due to known potential challenges with increasing water temperatures in Osceola ponds in late spring and heading into summer.  With knowledge of current timeline, all pond sites for Q3 evaluations will be selected based on absence of topped-out hydrilla at time of treatment to prevent higher temperature conditions common in hydrilla canopies.

Is the project work on schedule?

  • This quarter? 

As noted, pending APHIS permit approval for commercial partners confirmed in late Q1 has postponed some aspects of initial laboratory mesocosm evaluations of Mt materials produced through the new production pathway.

  • For the project? 

As noted in previous reports, we are behind relative to original work plan due to technical challenges associated with improving bioherbicide performance to cost-effective, consistent levels of virulence for final commercialization.

  • If the project is not on schedule, what is proposed for a revised schedule?

If late spring evaluations are successful, additional regulatory approvals to expand to full commercial, operational evaluations will be immediately sought.

  • Does the new schedule require a time extension?

Decision on time extension based on current described schedule for spring evaluation should be made following summer analysis of spring trial results and commercialization decision.

  • Are there any significant findings this quarter?
    • Current Mt strain shows similar or better virulence on potential US target weeds including hydrilla compared to an alternate strain with previously documented compatibility with alternate production approach currently the subject of developmental focus.
    • Late fall application of Mt bioherbicide in conjunction with an evaluation treatment of a novel chemical herbicide combination (penoxsulam + endothall) reduced hydrilla biomass more than the chemical combination alone at 3 months post treatment.
  • What is the future direction of the work?

Future effort will focus on evaluation of initial pilot production using an alternate culturing protocol.  An initial run of material produced by USDA using this protocol will be examined in aquarium mesocosm in early Q3 followed immediately by similar evaluations of production from commercial source with goal of expanded field evaluation of commercial pilot materials in late May or early June.  This timetable is dependent on receipt of APHIS permits by commercial partners as soon as possible.  Two current test ponds in Osceola County appear to be viable candidates for 0.4-0.5 acre test treatments with commercial material but a third will also be sought as backup.

  • Is there a change in the key contacts for this element?  No.

EPA Demonstration Project on Hydrilla and Hygrophila
 in the Upper Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
EPA Grant   #X796433105-1

Reporting period:   Second Quarter, EPA Fiscal Year 2009 January 1 – March 31, 2009

Person Reporting:  James P. Cuda

Element:  Element 3 Task 2:  Foreign Exploration for Natural Enemies of Hygrophila

Project activities during reporting period:

  • What Milestones have been met for your Element?

Element 3, Task 2:  Milestones:Activity 1 Milestone: 
Foreign exploration for natural enemies on Hygrophila spp.:
Predicting Potential Distribution of Hygrophila polysperma using Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) ModelingA predictive model of an invasive species’ distribution, otherwise referred to as an ‘Ecological Niche Model’, can contribute to formulating more structured survey efforts particularly in the native range.   In addition, it also approximates the potential spread of the target species.  In our project, we are using the Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) model to predict potential worldwide distribution of the invasive weed hygrophila. MaxEnt is one of several algorithms available over internet free of charge that is used to build ecological niche models (See: http://www.cs.princeton.edu/~schapire/maxent/). MaxEnt uses the presence-only georeference point locations of the target species and environmental parameters either in categorical or continuous format to generate a predictive model. MaxEnt offers an important advantage by generating continuous rather than binary output over the geographic space thus allowing fine distinctions of the modeled area based on suitability. MaxEnt randomly divides the occurrence points into training (points used to build the model) and test (points used to test prediction accuracy) samples, which were respectively indicated on the map as red circles and white triangles.
In all, we used 234 point location information that was collected from various sources to build this predictive model. In total, 20 environmental parameters, including altitude and 19 bioclimatic variables were used during this effort.   Environmental parameters were downloaded from WORLCLIM (http://www.worldclim.org/current.htm). WORLCLIM offers climate data from current, past and future conditions. In our model, we only used the ESRI grid 2.5 arc-minute resolution current climate data.
In addition to its known occurrence in India, this model (Fig. 5) indicated that hygrophila is likely to be found from Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, parts of Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. The result also predicted its probable presence in the northern part of Australia, including parts of Queensland.  Interestingly, the model also predicted that the northern part of Argentina and Paraguay as susceptible to invasion by hygrophila. As predicted, the east coast of Mexico and the northern part of Cuba also seemed likely to be invaded by this aquatic weed (Fig. 5). In the United States, the model predicted that most of Florida, except the Florida Keys was found to be very suitable for the growth of this weed (Fig. 5). The model also predicted range expansion along the coastal regions of the southern states with parts of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas approximated to be highly suitable for its growth.  The analysis suggested that hygrophila has a tremendous capacity to spread along the southern coast of the United States.  As mentioned previously, mean annual temperature (bio_8) and annual precipitation (bio_12) play a very important role in growth and spread of this species. Therefore, in the United States the distribution of hygrophila probably will be restricted primarily to the warmer and wetter parts of the country.  Not surprisingly, the predicted worldwide distribution matches well with the known distribution for hygrophila. Its spread was predicted in Texas, USA as well as Mexico and Australia, where this species has already been reported.  In Florida, this model also correctly predicted the current distribution of this species. Although this study is in its preliminary stage, initial results suggested that this model can truly depict the known worldwide distribution of this species. We are currently undertaking further analyses to improve this model.Activity 2 Milestone: 
Domestic survey to identify insects associated with hygrophila
No activity to report in this quarter.  This Activity has not been completed.  Some surveys were conducted earlier (see 2008 Second Quarterly Report) but additional surveys will be conducted during the next reporting period.  Activity 3 Milestone: 
Genetic analysis of Hygrophila polysperma using microsatellite primers
No activity to report in this quarter.  The genotyping work is still in progress.  Microsatellite markers have been designed for hygrophila and have been tested for their efficacy.  Plant samples will be collected in India, Bangladesh and possibly southern China during subsequent reporting periods.Activity 4 Milestone:
Effect of simulated herbivory on growth and biomass of hygrophila
No activity to report in this quarter.  The first phase of this activity was completed in August 2008.  Additional experiments are underway to estimate parameters for developing a mathematical growth model for hygrophila subjected to different herbivory levels. 

  • Were there any significant problems encountered?   No.
  • Is the project work on schedule?  Yes.
  • Are there any significant findings this quarter?

Development of Ecological Niche model to predict potential distribution of hygrophila in its native and exotic habitat.

  • What is the future direction of the work?

Obtain positive identifications of the caterpillar and rust fungus.

  • Is there a change in the key contacts for this element?  No

Hypothesized worldwide distribution of Hygrophila polysperma generated from MaxEnt analysis of collection recodes (n=234). Red colour circles represent ‘presence data’ used to build the model. White triangles represent data points used to test model prediction. Coloured boxes in lower left corner indicate predicted likelihood of worldwide occurrence of hygrophila.

Figure 5. Hypothesized worldwide distribution of Hygrophila polysperma generated from MaxEnt analysis of collection recodes (n=234). Red colour circles represent ‘presence data’ used to build the model. White triangles represent data points used to test model prediction. Coloured boxes in lower left corner indicate predicted likelihood of worldwide occurrence of hygrophila.

EPA Demonstration Project on Hydrilla and Hygrophila
in the Upper Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
 EPA Grant   #X796433105-1

Reporting period:   Second Quarter, EPA Fiscal Year 2009 January 1 – March 31, 2009

Person Reporting:  Willam A. Overholt

Element:  Element 3 Task 3: Collaborative effort to search for natural enemies of hydrilla in East Africa (Project Ongoing)

Project activities during reporting period:

  • What work was accomplished for this reporting quarter? 

Surveys in Burundi and Uganda indicate that chironomid midges comprise the great majority of insects associated with Hydrilla. In total, 21,817 chironomids, representing 17 species have been reared from collections made in Lake Tanganyika, Burundi, with Dicrotendipes fusconotatus accounting for 84% of individuals.  The putative Hydrilla herbivores, Polypedilum dewulfi and Polypedilum wittei, were reared in relatively large number from two locations near Bujumbura in Lake Tanganyika, and efforts to colonize these insects have been initiated.  In Uganda, a total of 1886 chironomids representing 35 species were reared from Hydrilla, 20 of which were collected in Lake Bisina, the most frequently sampled lake. Dicrotendipes septemmaculatus, a close relative of D. fusconotatus, accounted for 27% of specimens. Neither of the two target Polypedilum spp. was commonly reared in Uganda.   Berlese funnels set up in Burundi recovered chironomids, but only one curculionid larva.  One pyralid larva was collected from Hydrilla in Lake Tanganyika on a leaf whose margin had been partially chewed. No insects were reared from over 100 Hydrilla tubers collected at Cercle Nautique, Lake Tanganyika.A plant diversity survey in Lake Bisina, Uganda found 10 plant species, with 9 submersed macrophytes and Nymphea nuchalli.  Najas horrida was the most widespread and abundant species.  Hydrilla was found at about one-half of sampled sites and was the fourth most abundant plant.  Hydrilla was typically found growing in communities with 3-4 other plants species.DNA has been extracted from a total of 488 Hydrilla samples.  Seventeen polymorphic Hydrilla microsatellite loci have also been isolated and dye labeled.  We expect at least 10 of these loci will provide easily interpretable genotypes.  We successfully amplified a portion of the pds gene using nuclear DNA as judged by its perfect sequence alignment to the published cDNA sequence of the pds gene.  We are currently testing this region’s utility as a marker for resistance using fluridone resistant strains of Hydrilla.

  • What Milestones have been met for your Element?

Checklists of insects associated with hydrilla in Burundi and Uganda have been prepared (see tables 1, 2, 3 below).  This information will soon be posted on the web.  Table 1. Chironomidae reared from Hydrilla verticillata in BurundiTable 1. Chironomidae reared from Hydrilla verticillata in BurundiTable 2. Chironomidae reared from Hydrilla verticillata in Ugandan lakes

Table 2. Chironomidae reared from Hydrilla verticillata in Ugandan lakesTable 3. Chironomidae reared from other Hydrocharitaceae species in Uganda Lakes

Table 3. Chironomidae reared from other Hydrocharitaceae species in Uganda Lakes

  • Were there any significant problems encountered?

No major problems, albeit we have not been able to unequivocally associate plant damage with any of the insects associated with hydrilla. 

  • If so, what measures were taken to correct the problem?

We plan to 1) continue plant dissections to examine for plant damage and herbivores and 2) a major effect will be placed on rearing two species of chironomids (Polypedilum dewulfi and P. wittei) which are thought to be plant feeders.
 

  • Is the project work on schedule?  Yes.
  • Are there any significant findings this quarter?

We have identified areas in Lake Tanganyika near Bujumbura where the two putative herbivores ((Polypedilum dewulfi and P. wittei) are relatively more abundant than at other sampling sites.  Earlier, our major problem was that these two species were not commonly recovered – now that we have areas where they are more abundant, it will give us a greater opportunity for laboratory colonization.

  • What is the future direction of the work?
  • Colonization of the two Polypedilum spp.
  • Test a hypothesis that herbivory by fish may be a factor in regulating hydrilla in Africa.
  • Is there a change in the key contacts for this element?  No.

EPA Demonstration Project on Hydrilla and Hygrophila
in the Upper Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
EPA Grant   #X796433105-1

Reporting period:      2nd Quarter, EPA Fiscal Year 2009 January 1 – March 31, 2009

Person Reporting:     Stacia Hetrick, UF/IFAS Osceola County Extension
Karen Brown, Beth Hathaway and Amy Richard, Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants
                                               
Element:  Element 4 Demonstration and Outreach

Project activities during reporting period:

  • What work was accomplished for this reporting quarter?

Meetings:

  • Attended a variety of meetings including:
    • Osceola County Lakes Management Advisory Committee
    • South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) Kissimmee River Reservations Meeting
    • Overall Advisory Committee and Natural Resources Advisory Committee Meetings for the Extension Office
    • Weed Science Society of America Annual Meeting
  • Attended the Hydrilla Interagency Group Meeting to discuss the status of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes.  Informed the group about the 2009 Project Field Day.
  • Met with Ed Harris with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to discuss planning for the 2009 Hydrilla Field Day and 2009 teacher workshop.
  • Attended a conference call with Hilda Hatzell, EPA, to discuss EPA budget categories for the project.
  • Met with Beth Hathaway and Amy Richard with the Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants regarding revamping the project website, kiosks, and the teacher workshop.
  • Met with Dr. Netherland and Dr. Ken Langeland to discuss Element 2 and future publications.

Presentations/Exhibits:

  • Prepared and delivered a presentation for the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners to update them on the status of the Demonstration Project.  Over 210 people were in attendance at the meeting and the meeting was also televised and is available online at
http://osceola.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=8&clip_id=743.
  • Prepared and delivered a presentation on the project for the Kissimmee Kiwanis Club.
  • Displayed information and live aquatic weeds at the Cow Town Days event (picture below).  Provided information on aquatic weeds and how to stop or prevent their spread.  Theme: "Help Stop the Spread of Aquatic Weeds.”
  • Assisted with the Leadership Osceola and Leadership Legends Environmental Day in cooperation with the SFWMD.  Leadership Osceola County is a leadership development program.  Over the course of the program participants are introduced to our community, including social services, criminal justice, education, healthcare, governmental services, the environment, etc.  During the Environmental Day, participants were taken out on air boats to learn about the lock and canal systems and the importance of aquatic plant management in Osceola County.  They were given information on native and invasive aquatic plants while they were on the water and could see the impacts first hand.  I presented information about hydrilla and the Demonstration Project while out on the water.
  • Gave a presentation on the project for the Osceola County Lakes Management Advisory Committee Meeting.

Developed an educational exhibit at the Osceola County Fair. Cooperated with Jessica Sullivan, the Florida Yards and Neighborhoods program coordinator, to educate residents on the impacts fertilizers and other activities have on stormwater retention ponds and the growth of aquatic weeds such as hydrilla.  Theme: "Help Save Our Lakes.”

Exhibit at Cow Town Days event

Exhibit at Cow Town Days event

Publications:

Wrote an article for the Osceola County Extension Newsletter “Solutions for Your Life”:

    • Hetrick, Stacia A. 2009. April, May, June.  “Hydrilla in Florida: How did it get here?” Solutions for Your Life
  • Submitted two articles for Aquatics Magazine (Quarterly publication of the Florida Aquatic Plant Management Society), to be published in Spring 2009 edition.
  • “Hydrilla and Hygrophila Demonstration Website
  •  “2009 Field Day for the Demonstration Project on Hydrilla and Hygrophila”

Submitted an article to the Osceola News Gazette.

  • “Hydrilla: The Perfect Aquatic Weed”

Field Activities:

  • Observed large-scale treatment of hydrilla by SFWMD on Lake Toho, Cypress, and Hatchineha via aerial and granular application of herbicide (pictures below).  Met the key players from SFWMD, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC) and contracting companies involved in the treatment.  Worked with FFWCC to educate boaters on the water about the treatment.
  • Continue to survey and tour the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes with biologist Sarah Berger, FFWCC, and SFWMD to keep up to date on the status of hydrilla and hygrophila growth and spread, as well as note problem areas and areas of residential concern.
  • Assisted University of Florida researchers with routine survey for endangered Snail Kites on Lake Toho to better understand the interactions between Snail Kites, apple snails and hydrilla.
  • Toured county ponds with Dr. Tina Bond from Osceola County Stormwater Section to better understand hydrilla issues in stormwater ponds.

Helicopter refilling with liquid and granular herbicide.

Helicopter refilling with liquid and granular herbicide.

Miscellaneous:

  • Took the Aquatic Pest Control Applicator’s Exam and obtained license.
  • Joined professional organizations including Florida Lakes Management Society (FLMA) and Florida Association of Environmental Professionals (FAEP).
  • Met with Sherry Burroughs and corresponded with Amy Richard regarding the design and construction of kiosks with information on the project to be placed at the primary boat ramps in Osceola County.
  • Prepared budget analysis for 2009 Q2 report.
  • Prepared Quarter 1 Report for Element 4.
  • Attended Osceola County’s required National Incident Management System (NIMS) training and the University of Florida’s Permanent Status/Promotion Workshop.
  • Attended the 2009 Turfgrass Field Day to observe how the event was organized and conducted to aid in the planning and development of the 2009 Hydrilla Field Day.
  • National Public Radio (NPR) featured Dr. Cuda for a special report on hygrophila on January 13, 2009.
  • Worked with element coordinators to discuss anticipated adjustments to the workplan and budget for the final year of the grant. Recommended changes to the workplan and budget are being prepared for discussion with EPA project coordinator in the next reporting period.  These will be coordinated with both EPA and Osceola County to meet required policies and timelines and take effect for the 2010 project year.  Additional funds will not be requested but changes in budget allocations, activities and deliverables based on reported accomplishments to date are anticipated.

Sr. Biologist Position Vacancy

  • Sarah Berger is leaving the position to pursue graduate studies at University of Florida relating to aquatic plant management, effective April 24, 2009.  Reviewed position vacancy for Sr. Biologist position, received Osceola County approval to refill the position in spite of local freeze on hiring and prepared for advertisement April 1, 2009- May 1, 2009.
  • What Milestones have been met for your Element?

Task 1, Year 3 – 2nd Quarter
Demonstration field days and media events to keep stakeholders informed on the progress of hydrilla and hygrophila management work.Preparations are ongoing for the upcoming Field Day.  It has been advertised in numerous venues and registration is being taken.  Staff from the CAIP office are assembling printed outreach materials and will be providing further education/outreach support with an information booth at the upcoming Demonstration Project Field Day (May 21, 2009). Additionally, more brochures are being printed in time for the event; the printing is being handled by CAIP staff and are to be delivered to Stacia Hetrick by May 7, 2009. Task 2, Year 3 – 2nd QuarterAn interactive website will keep citizens/agencies informed of the various stages of research and allow citizens to communicate directly with researchers and county officials with questions and/or concerns.

Google Analytics Web Site Statistics

According to Google Analytics, the website had 565 visits during the 2nd quarter of year 3. During this quarter the web site was restructured by Beth Hathaway with input from Stacia Hetrick into a format found easier to navigate. The site template was also updated with content changes and additions which affected the entire site.

The following new web pages were created:

Edits to the web site included:

Task 3, Year 3 – 2nd Quarter Database development.Citations from the APIRS database (i.e., information on hydrilla and hygrophila control) continue to be available online for citizens and researchers in Osceola County, and new citations are added as they are received. Copies of publications are available from the CAIP Information office.

Task 4, Year 3 – 2nd Quarter Develop portable Aquatic Plant Management Displays/ Kiosks that can be used for local events such as the County Fair, Earth Day, Great Outdoors Days, scientific conferences and at various public areas such as boat ramps, parks, libraries and county offices.  Revisions for the four individual kiosk panel templates (i.e., for boat ramps):

  • The original idea of using large umbrellas as the supporting structure for the kiosk panels has been changed to a more permanent design. As a result, Amy Richard is researching various outdoor “printable” materials that will allow the panels to be permanently affixed to wood or metal supports, to be installed at boat ramps. Sample materials and costs are being gathered for discussion with Stacia Hetrick.
  • The size of the display panels has been changed to 24” h x 36” w (or possibly 42” w) – and will now be in a horizontal/landscape format.

The panels will include three of the four original template designs, combined into one. Text and images from two of the templates are being combined and text revisions are being made for easier readability (i.e., shortened) and to meet font size requirements for the American Disabilities Act (ADA) for public displays. Karen Brown completed the first round of edits/text revisions and they are now under review by Stacia Hetrick and Amy Richard. Task 5, Year 3 – 2nd QuarterDevelopment of interactive science curricula for Osceola County teachers.

  • Amy Richard (CAIP) is working with two teachers, Amy Johnson-Henson and Judy McDonald, from the Narcoossee Community School, to test the feasibility of working with students to produce digital video Public Service Announcements about invasive plants. The activity is slated for early May. Both teachers will work with students to provide the production and filming of raw footage for six short videos (3-6 minutes), using pre-determined guidelines. Phil Chiocchio, a video expert and professor at the Ringling College of Art and Design, will provide editing services (capturing footage, sound effects, special visual effects, etc.) to finalize and polish the productions. This is a pilot project to test its value as a learning and assessment tool for the Silent Invaders/Module 1 curricula as it relates to Osceola County invasive plants
  • Stacia Hetrick (Osceola County) and Amy Richard (CAIP) are collaborating in preparation for the 2009 CSI-OSCEOLA Invasive Plant workshop for teachers (July7-10, 2009). Stacia is handling the arrangements for speakers and meeting locations, meals, etc. and Amy Richard and Rob Horsburgh (CAIP) are preparing materials for the workshop including teacher kits/curricula notebooks, Freshwater Plant BINGO!, Freshwater Plant Jigsaw Puzzle activities, photo mural sets, etc. Additionally, print materials and other components (beads, containers, signage, etc.) are now being gathered to create “kits” for The Hydrilla Game.
  • The Hydrilla Game is being reviewed by Amy Giannotti, plant biologist with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, for ways to adapt it for use by high school students.

 Task 6, Year 3 – 2nd Quarter
Development of additional demonstration and outreach strategies.As discussed in the last quarterly report, a large-scale version of an Invasive Species Film Festival is being considered as a “viral marketing” technique for public outreach. This idea is being tested, at the Narcoossee Community School next month, as a small pilot project to evaluate student enthusiasm and its value as an assessment tool. Also, it has been noted that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency just launched something similar with regards to “getting the word out” on water quality issues: http://www.epa.gov/owow/videocontest.html . The EPA contest outline, rules and guidelines are currently being evaluated for the feasibility of doing something similar in Osceola County.This project would involve additional funding to pay for the assistance of a video production expert and additional website development (i.e., for reviewing and then making the video segments available online). Amy Richard is working with Stacia Hetrick, Phil Chiocchio (video expert), and staff from the CAIP Information Office to assemble a proposed budget.

Task 7, Year 2 - Fourth Quarter
One paper and one poster per year to share research progress and management technology, to be published on EDIS and presented at meetings. Most of Element Coordinators participated in the 2009 Weed Science Society of America Annual Meeting during this quarter.  Dr. Haller conducted an Airboat Tour and Dr. Heilman and Dr. Cuda conducted a Biocontrol Tour as part of the meeting.  Stacia Hetrick and Eleanor Foerste assisted in these tours and Stacia Hetrick gave a presentation on the project and hydrilla management during the tour (pictures below).  Stacia Hetrick submitted abstracts on the project for consideration for presentations or posters at the 2009 Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council Annual Meeting, 2009 Central District Extension Symposium and 2009 National Aquatic Plant Management Society Annual Meeting.  Stacia Hetrick was invited to give a presentation on the project at the University of Florida for the ‘Colloquium on Pest Plants of Regulatory Significance’ course in April, 2009.  In addition, she was invited by Dr. Haller to moderate at the 2009 Aquatic Weed Short Course.Presentations given this quarter at scientific meetings are listed below.

Dr. Haller presenting at WSSA Airboat Tour

Dr. Haller presenting at WSSA Airboat Tour

Dr. Heilman presenting at WSSA Biocontrol Tour

Dr. Heilman presenting at WSSA Biocontrol Tour

Presentations:

Oral
Mukherjee, A.  D. Okine, J. P. Cuda, W. A. Overholt, and W. T. Haller. 2009. Effect of simulated herbivory on growth and final biomass of the aquatic weed hygrophila, Hygrophila polysperma (Roxb.) T. Anders (Acanthaceae). WSSA Abstracts, Joint Annual Meeting of the Weed Science Society of America and the Southern Weed Science Society, Orlando, Florida. http://wssa.net/Meetings/WSSAAbstracts/abstractsearch.php (Note:  the paper received the 2nd Place Award for the SWSS Ph.D. Student Oral Presentation competition).

Poster
Schmid, T.A., J.P. Cuda, G.E. MacDonald, and J.L. Gillmore. 2009. Performance of two biological control agents on susceptible and fluridone-resistant genotypes of the aquatic weed hydrilla, Hydrilla verticillata. WSSA Abstracts, Joint Annual Meeting of the Weed Science Society of America and the Southern Weed Science Society, Orlando, Florida. http://wssa.net/Meetings/WSSAAbstracts/abstractsearch.php

  • Were there any significant problems encountered? A delay in the completion of the kiosk project.
    • If so, what measures were taken to correct the problem?

The delay was the result of a vacancy with the extension position. Now that Stacia Hetrick (Osceola) is onboard, she and Amy Richard (CAIP) reviewed and discussed revisions for the four individual kiosk panel templates. As a result, a number of changes are being made to the template and the production of the kiosk structures

  • Is the project work on schedule?  Yes.
  • This quarter? 

Yes, except for the kiosk display portion.  Due to major revisions and a change in the size/format/materials that are to be used, the deadline for completion of the kiosk panels will need to be extended to the end of the 3rd quarter (June).

  • For the project?  Yes.
  • Is there a change in the key contacts for this element?  No.