A few strands of thin, feathery, green plants growing under the dock didn’t catch anyone’s attention last spring. But those strands spread quickly and within months the lake’s calm waters were tangled in mats of the feathery Eurasian watermilfoil, an aggressive aquatic plant that grows quickly and clogs everything in its path. … This isn’t just an isolated incident; it’s happening across California. Aquatic invasive species are spreading faster than ever, infesting our ponds, creeks, reservoirs, lakes, and rivers. Now is the time to learn about aquatic invasive species; what they are, how they spread, and what we can do to stop them. When we understand the issue, we can make smart choices and protect California’s waters.

Other invasive species news:

• The Press Democrat (Santa Rosa, Calif.): Volunteers unite to protect Sonoma Coast from invasive species
• YubaNet (Nevada City, Calif.): Mandatory watercraft screenings at New Bullards Bar begin Aug. 18 to help prevent spread of invasive golden mussels