Ernie Frankeeafranke@tampabay.rr.com

August 2015

Grass Carp Grass Carp forfor

Control of HydrillaControl of Hydrillainin

StormwaterStormwaterRetention PondsRetention Ponds

Purpose of Conservation Module on Controlling HydrillaPurpose of Conservation Module on Controlling Hydrilla•Identify Hydrilla–Distinguish Between Hydrilla, Elodea or Egeria–Doesn’t Really Matter, Grass Carp Like to Eat All of Them•Keep Pond Owners from Becoming Discouraged –Gain a Sense of Timing•Processing Time and Procedure for Permitting•Process of Amending Grass Carp Permit•Method and Time to Acquire Fish–When Hydrilla Doesn’t Disappear in One or Two Months•It May Take Six Months to Two Years, Depending on Infestation Level•Especially When Hydrilla Is Growing Faster Than Carp Can Eat–Need Assurance When You Don’t See Any Grass Carp for Six Months•Don’t Know If They've Been Eaten by Herons, Egrets or Alligators•Carp Don’t Come Near Sides of Pond Until Food Supply Is Gone

•Hydrilla Control Is Best Handled in Conjunction with Other Methods–Hydrilla Grows Very Rapidly–Possibly Faster than the Carp Can Eat–Manual and Chemical Control Can Get You Over the Power Curve

This conservation module calms the pond-owners’ fears by describing the process and giving an approximate time-line. 2

Purpose of Conservation ModulePurpose of Conservation Module (cont.)(cont.)•Need to Consider the End Result–What Will Happen When the Vegetation Is Totally Gone?–Need Four Years of Control After Disappearance–Hydrilla Nodules (Tubers) Remain Active for Four Years•Review Sources of Grass Carp–State Provides a List of Approved Vendors–Need an Interpretation of the List•Emphasis on Multi-Prong Approach: Manual, Chemical and Grass Carp–Need to Keep Manually Attacking It During Multi-Prong Approach–One Day, You’ll Notice the Hydrilla Gone

This conservation module emphasizes the need of combining manual, chemical and biological control for hydrilla removal. 3

What Type of Plant Is Causing the Problem?What Type of Plant Is Causing the Problem?

Often plant problems in ponds and lakes are due to invasive, exotic species such as hydrilla, which have no natural enemies in Florida.

It is in everyone's interest to prevent these plants from spreading. 4

•To Identify Problem Plants, Check Aquatic Plant Photographs–Provided by University of Florida•http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/ and http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/node/488•http://www.plantatlas.usf.edu/flip/browse.aspx?by=common–Provided by Texas A&M•http://aquaplant.tamu.edu/plant-identification/–Contact Nearest Invasive Plant Management Field Office•Hydrilla Can Grow Up to 1” per day Under Favorable Conditions–Can Produce Dense Mats•Hydrilla Is Highly-Problematic Invasive Specie–Reproduces in Many Ways:•Fragmented Stems•Budding of New Plants from Leaf Axils•Tubers That Can Remain Viable for Up to 4 yrs

•Also Known As: Florida Elodea, Stargrass, Oxygen Grass•Scientific Name: Hydrilla verticillata (Non-Native to Florida)•Submersed Plant: Grows to Surface and Forms Dense Mats•Legally Prohibited Plant Lists–Under No Circumstances Permitted for Possession, Collection, Transportation, Cultivation or Importation–Class I Prohibited Aquatic Plants–Federal Noxious Weed List–Florida Prohibited Aquatic Plants List

•Problems/Effects–Grows in Any Freshwater: Spring, Lake, Marsh, Ditch, River or Tidal Zone–Grows in a Few Inches of Water or in Water More Than 20 ft Deep–Tolerates a Variety of Nutrient Conditions, Even Some Salt Water–Needs Only 1% of Full Sunlight to Grow, Making It Very Competitive–Can Grow an Inch per Day–When Hydrilla Invades, Ecologically-Important Native Submersed Plants, Such as Pondweeds (Potamogeton spp.), Tapegrass (Vallisneria americana) and Coontail (Ceratophyllum demersum) Are Shaded Out by Hydrilla's Thick Mats or Simply Out-Competed and Eliminated–Millions of Dollars Are Spent Each Year on Herbicides and Mechanical Harvesters–Slows Water Flow and Clogs Irrigation and Flood-Control Canals•Large Mats of Fragments Collect at Culverts and Clog Water Control Pumping Stations

–Interferes with Boating, Recreational and Commercial, and Prevents Fishing–Dense Infestations Can Alter Water Chemistry and Oxygen Levels

What Is Hydrilla?What Is Hydrilla?

By the time you identify that you have hydrilla, it has already taken hold and will continue to choke your retention pond. 5

What Does Hydrilla Look Like?What Does Hydrilla Look Like?•Florida West-Coast Aquarium Dealer Shipped Live Hydrilla from Sri Lanka Under Common Name "Indian Star-Vine" •After Plants Were Considered Unsatisfactory, They Were Dumped into a Canal Near Tampa Bay, Where They Flourished•By 1955, Plants Found Their Way from Tampa to Miami, As They Were Transported for Cultivation and thePet Trade Sale•Several Undocumented Cases of Accidental or Careless Releases Followed, with Extensive Spread Throughout Florida and the Southeast

Eradication of hydrilla is costing tax-payers millions. 6

Dense Matte-Like Growth

Hydrilla Hydrilla IdentificationIdentification

It doesn’t really matter whether it’s hydrilla, elodea or egeria,grass carp likes all three.

Hyrilla

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Beauty and the Beast (FloridaBeauty and the Beast (Florida--Native vs. NonNative vs. Non--Native)Native)•Yellow Water Lily (Nymphaea mexicana): Florida-Native•Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata): Invasive Non-Native

Much like cancer, hydrilla starts with just one sprig, and by the end of the season it takes over the entire pond. 8

Three Methods of Hydrilla RemovalThree Methods of Hydrilla Removal•Manual Removal: By Hand or By Machine–Mechanical Harvesters and Chopping Machines Remove Hydrilla and Transport It to Disposal on Shore–Chopping Machines Fragment Hydrilla Plants and May Actually Increase Distribution–Lake Draw-Downs May Help by Letting Exposed Plants Die and Decompose

•Chemical: Adding Herbicides–Registered Aquatic Herbicides Provide Temporary Control of Hydrilla–Restrictions Were Placed, Allowing Only Single Type of Chemical, Fluridone, To Be Used•Prevents Evolution of Multiple Mutants, and Resulted in Fluridone-Resistant Hydrilla

•Biological: Grass Carp–Slower Approach to Controlling Weeds and Plants•Grass Carp Can Eat Only So Fast, Therefore Need an Integrated Approach

–Grass Carp Also Effectively Control Weeds with Tender Succulent Vegetation•Filamentous Algae and Duckweed

–Permit Is Required to Introduce Grass Carp into Florida Pond or Lake•Best Used as Part of an Integrated Approach to Lake/Pond Management–Key to Aquatic Weed Control Is to Address the Problem When It is Small–Effective Removal of Hydrilla Involves a Progressive Approach•Start with Manual Removal and/or Chemical Control•Finish with Introduction of Grass Carp

–Whereas Manual Removal and/or Chemical Control Are Effective at Reducing Hydrilla, Grass Carp Will Control It Until It Finally Dies

•During Final Stages of Removal, Grass Carp Eat Any New Growth

Using an integrated approach to aquatic weed control, the key to aquatic weed control is to address the problem when it is small. 9

•Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) Is the Most Problematic Specie in Lake Seminole•Major Concern in Late 1980s•Coverage Rapidly Expanded from 86 acres in 1988, to 277 acres in 1990–Approximately 40% Coverage (Lake Seminole Is 684 acres, 3.3 X 0.3 miles)•FWC Released 7,800 Triploid Grass Carp Between 1988 and 1991•Coverage Reduced to Only 0.5 acre In 1992, and Only 0.0 acres in 1993

Example: Hydrilla in Lake Seminole, Pinellas CountyExample: Hydrilla in Lake Seminole, Pinellas County

We have seen hydrilla cleared from Lake Seminole using the combined techniques of manual, chemical and biological (grass carp) control. 10

Control of Invasive Control of Invasive HydrillaHydrilla

The USGS has shown the invasion of hydrilla has not improved in FL.Eradication of hydrilla from infested waters is not likely;

emphasis should be placed on containment and spread prevention. 11

Hydrilla in BlackHydrilla in Black--Bird Pond: January 2015Bird Pond: January 2015

SpatterdockHydrilla

Hydrilla

By the time you identify that you have hydrilla, it has already taken hold and will continue to choke your retention pond. 12

Hydrilla in BlackHydrilla in Black--Bird Pond: January 2015Bird Pond: January 2015

Removal of hydrilla was initiated by a manual removal, followed by the addition of grass carp.

Piles of Piles of Hydrilla Hydrilla DryingDrying

Piles of Spatterdock DryingPiles of Spatterdock Drying

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What Are Grass Carp?What Are Grass Carp?•Chinese Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)–Members of Minnow Family, But Don't Fit the Typical Minnow Profile–Grow to an Average of 15-20 lbs and 20-35” in Length–In Larger Lakes, with Plenty of Plants to Eat, They Can Grow to 50-60 lbs. and Exceed 50” in Length–In Florida, Largest Reported Grass Carp Weighted 75 lbs. Minnow, Indeed! •Herbivorous (Plant-Eating) Fish, Purposely Introduced into Many Florida Ponds and Lakes to Control Aggressive Aquatic Weed Growth–Chinese Grass Carp Originally Imported and Stocked in Florida Lakes in 1972 as Part of an Experimental Effort to Control Hydrilla

•Also Known as White Amur, Chinese Grass Carp Sometimes Appear Silver in Color, But Often Display an Olive-Green or Dark-Gray Hue on Top with Light-Gold or Pale-Yellow Sides•Belly Is Silvery or Bluish-White and Fins are Light-Green or Gray•Large Fish Scales Are Distinguishing Characteristic of Carp and Koi Family•For Many, Grass Carp and Aquatic Weeds Seem Like a Match Made in Heaven

Mature Grass Carp

Mature Grass Carp in Osprey Pond

Sound good? No lumbering harvesters needed, no expensive chemicals; just stock the lake with a dozen hungry carp and let them do their thing.

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Grass Carp DietGrass Carp Diet (http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/guide/grasscarp.html)(http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/guide/grasscarp.html)•Common Florida Aquatic Plants Eaten by Grass Carp in Approximate Order of Preference–Most Favorite Plants of Grass Carp•Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata)•Brazilian Clodea (Egeria densa)•Coontail (Ceratophyllum demersum)•Muskgrass (Chara spp.)•Southern Maiad (Najas quadalupensis)•Water-Meal (Wolffia spp.)•Duckweed (Lemna spp. and Spirodela spp.)•Torpedo Grass (Panicum repens)

–Least Favorite Plants of Grass Carp•Tapegrass or Eel-Grass (Vallisneria americana)•Parrott-Feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum)•Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes)•Water Lettuce (Pistia stratiotes)•Water Lilies (Nymphaea odorata and mexicana)•Spatterdock (Nuphar luteum)

•Grass Carp Are Not Always Selective about the Plants They Eat–They May Start with Their Favorite Plants, But Once Consumed, Grass Carp Have Been Known to Eat Every Single Plant in a Waterbody — Including Submersed, Emersed, and Floating Plants–Even Seen Wriggling Out of the Water to Munch On Grasses Along the Shoreline!

•Grass Carp Are Not Interested in Water Lilies, Alligator Weed and Dollar Weed•When They're Hungry, Grass Carp Will Try Filimentous Algae, Eelgrass, Cattails and Other Emergent Plants Such as Torpedo Grass

Grass carp were chosen because of their fondness for hydrilla, and their distaste of water lilies. 15

Triploid Grass Carp SterilityTriploid Grass Carp Sterility•Technique Used to Eliminate Reproduction in Florida Waters–Not All Treated Eggs Develop into Fish with Abnormal Chromosome Numbers

•Permitted Grass Carp Are Sterile: Not Male and Not Female–Early 1980s, Researchers Began Treating Eggs with Heat, Cold or Pressure–Produced Fish with Abnormal Chromosome Numbers•Diploid Grass Carp Has Chromosome Number (2N) of 48–Right Number of Chromosomes to Reproduce–Diploid Grass Carp, as Most Fish, Are Capable of Sexual Reproduction•Triploid Grass Carp Has Chromosome Number (3N) of 72–Three Sets of Chromosomes and Incapable of Normal Sexual Reproduction–Hatchery-Raised Fish Sterilized by “Shocking” Fertilized Eggs with Drastic Changes in Hydrostatic Pressure

–Sterilization Techniques Are Not 100% Effective•Florida Law Dictates That Grass Carp Must Be Sterile, or “Triploid"•Grass Carp Do Not Reproduce in Ponds and Periodic Restocking Is Required•Lifespan of Grass Carp Is Between 10 and 15 years

Even though the Triploid Grass Carp are sterile, the FWC wants to make sure the fish can’t escape,

guarantying that we don’t introduce another invasive specie. 16

What Do I Need to Know About Triploid Grass Carp?What Do I Need to Know About Triploid Grass Carp?•Duration of Hydrilla Control: –Provides Much Longer-Term Control than Other Methods•Often Up to Five Years Before Re-Stocking Is Necessary–Usually Takes Six Months to Be Effective in Reducing Problem Vegetation–When Used In Conjunction with Initial Herbicide Treatment, Control Can Be Achieved Quickly, and Fewer Carp Are Required to Maintain the Desired Level of Vegetation

•Overstocking: –Once Stocked in a Lake or Pond, Carp Are Very Difficult to Remove–If Over-Stocking Occurs, May Be Ten Years Before Vegetation Recovers–Even After Carp Are Removed, Other Herbivores, Such as Turtles May Prevent Re-Growth

•Water Clarity: –Aquatic Plants Remove Nutrients in the Water–When Plants Are Removed, Nutrients May Then Be Alternately Utilized by Phytoplankton, Turning the Water Green

•Inflows/Outflows: –Any Inflows or Outflows Through Which Carp Can Escape into Other Waters Requires Barriers to Prevent Grass Carp from Escaping

Used in conjunction with chemical and manual control, adding the proper number of grass carp will solve the problem of hydrilla. 17

How Many Is Too Many?How Many Is Too Many?•Research Conducted at Universities Throughout the Southeast Shown That Stocking 10 to 15 Grass Carp per Acre Will Control Moderate Weed Infestations–According to the Florida FWC, This Can Be Achieved with Approximately Two to Five Fish per acre of Submersed Vegetation

•Heavy Infestations, Where Majority of Waterbody Is Covered, Requires 20 or More Grass Carp per Acre•Stocking Rates Depend On:–Size of Available Fish (preferred is 10-12")–Hydrilla Plant Density–Size of the Water Body (acres)–Water Temperature–Whether Mechanical or Herbicide Treatments Have Been Used•Number of Fish and Time Required to Achieve Weed Control Can Be Reduced by Using Grass Carp with Other Aquatic Weed Control Options•For Example, Herbicides or Mechanical Removal Can Be Used Prior to Fish Introduction•If Established Aquatic Vegetation Is Removed, Tender New Growth Can Be Controlled by Fewer Fish

•At Low Stocking Rates (two to five fish per acre), It Can Take Six Months to a Year Before Plants Begin to Noticeably Decrease in Abundance•Because Grass Carp Generally Eat Plants Starting with the Roots (instead of the extremities, such as leaves and flowers), Their Effectiveness Is Sometimes Underestimated–When This Happens, People Tend to Stock More Fish into the Lake or Pond–Results in “Over-Stocking” and Unintended Removal of Every Single Plant

•Grass Carp Can Live for 10 years or More–The Older They Are, the Larger They Become and the More Food They Will Consume

The ideal goal is to stock just enough grass carp,so that aquatic weed consumption slightly exceeds aquatic weed growth. 18

Grass Carp DisadvantagesGrass Carp Disadvantages•All Inlets and Outlets to the Lake or Pond Must Be Screened (Barriers) to Prevent Grass Carp from Escaping into Streams, Rivers or Other Lakes–Sterility Is Not 100.00% Effective•Depending on Plant Densities, It May Take Several Years to Achieve the Desired Level of Control Using Grass carp•Over-Stocking Grass Carp May Eventually Lead to Algae Blooms–Power of Removing Nutrients Have Been Removed–If Waterbody Is Over-Stocked, All Submersed Aquatic Plants May Be Eliminated–Potential for Lake or Pond to Change from a Clear-Water, Plant-Dominated System to a Murky Algae-Dominated System–May Be a Number of Unhappy Lake-Front Homeowners Over the Years–When Algae (phytoplankton) No Longer Has to Compete with Larger Plants for Nutrients, the Algae Soon Become the Dominant Plants within the System–Within Weeks or Months, Water Clarity Can Be Significantly Reduced as Algae Increases and Is Suspended in the Water Column, Turning the Water into an Intense Green Color or Even Forming a Surface Scum on Top of the Water–Need to Add Long-Term Plants Such as Water Lilies, Duck Potato and Pickerelweed to Remove Nutrients, Thus Decreasing Algae Growth

•Once Hydrilla Is Gone, or Under Control, How Do You Remove Grass Carp?–Removing Excess Fish Is Difficult and Expensive –Lake Managers and Biologists Are Amazed at the Carp's Uncanny Ability to Outsmart Virtually Every Type of Fishing Technique–Nets, Hook-and-Line and Electro-Shocking Are Minimally Successful, Especially after the First Application

Without hydrilla to remove nutrients from the stormwater, the problem may shift to algae control as the pond turns green. 19

Helpful WebsitesHelpful Websites•Grass Carp: A Fish for Biological Management of Hydrilla and Other Aquatic Weeds in Florida, Bulletin 867 booklet entitled, “Grass Carp,” updated (2005) on the FWC website–http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fa043

•Grass Carp on Florida FWC Website–http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/freshwater/nonnatives/grass-carp/

•Florida FWC On-Line Permit Apllication–https://public.myfwc.com/crossdoi/triploidgrasscarp/default.aspx

•Approved Suppliers/Producers of Triploid Grass Carp from the Florida FWC –http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/plants/management/Vendor.pdf

•Florida Fish Farms–http://www.floridafishfarms.com/triploid%20grass%20carp.htm

•Grass Carp: A Fish for Biological Management of Hydrilla and Other Aquatic Weeds in Florida1

–http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fa043•Hydrilla Management in Florida: A Summary and Discussion of Issues Identified by Professionals with Future Management Recommendations Final Document: 2005–http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/misc/pdfs/HydrillaMgmt_Final_June05a.pdf

•Hydrilla verticillata "The Perfect Aquatic Weed" –http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/node/184

•Recognition Card of Hydrilla verticillata–http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/misc/reco_cards/hydver.pdf

•Hydrilla Management in Florida Lakes1

–http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ag370•http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/manage/control-methods/biological-control/chinese-grass-carp•Florida FWC Invasive Plant Management Section Aquatic Plant Control Program Annual Report, 2013-2014–http://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/misc/pdfs/LegislativeAnnualReport2013-2014.pdf

•A Beginner’s Guide to Water Management—Aquatic Plants in Florida Lakes by UF/IFAS Florida LAKEWATCH (2014)–http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FA/FA16300.pdf

•Hydrilla Integrated Management by Jennifer L. Gillett-Kaufman, Verena-Ulrike Lietze, and Emma N.I. Weeks, UF/IFAS Extension, USDA/NIFA RAMP Project (2014)–http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in1044

An internet search of “triploid grass carp”will yield more information than you want to know. 20

•Illegal to Possess or Transport Grass Carp Without a Permit•Permits Issued by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)•Steps in Applying or Amending a Grass Carp Permit On-Line–Check for Existing Permit–Complete New or Amended Permit Application•There May Be Pit-Falls–Lake or Pond Is in a Mitigation Zone–City or County May Discourage Carp Barriers•Cost: $0.00

Basics of Grass Carp PermittingBasics of Grass Carp Permitting

Even though much of the information is on the FWC website, this module guides home owners and condo associations through

through the permitting process and acquiring grass carp.21

Apply for (or Amend) Triploid Grass Carp Permit Apply for (or Amend) Triploid Grass Carp Permit OnOn--LineLine•Apply for a New Permit or Amend an Existing Permit–If a Permit Has Been Issued on That or Adjacent Pond, Amend That Permit•Go to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Website–https://public.myfwc.com/crossdoi/triploidgrasscarp/default.aspx–To Search and Reprint Existing Permits•Enter Last Name and Another Selection Field, Then 'Press Here to Search' •Example of Existing Permit for Amendment: “Franke” and “Pinellas County”•Results:–Permit #: TG-00029XXX–Water Name: SHORES OF LONG BAYOU OSPREY, BLACKBIRD &–County: PINELLAS–Customer: FRANKE, EARNEST–Carp Permitted:18, Carp Bought: 18–Status: Issued, Permit Date Issued: 01/01/1900

•If You Believe a Permit Has Been Issued, But You Can’t Find It, Contact:–Rhonda Howell, FFWCC, Eustis Fisheries Lab–601 W. Woodward Ave Eustis, FL 32726–Tel: 352-357-2951 Fax: 352-357-2941–Rhonda.howell@myfwc.com

The first step in obtaining a grass carp permit is to check to see if you or anyone else has pulled a permit on your stormwater retention pond or lake. 22

Application for a New Triploid Grass Carp PermitApplication for a New Triploid Grass Carp Permit•Required Information on On-Line Application–Contact Information–Water Body Information

•Permits May Be Obtained On-Line If the Following Criteria Are Met:–Single Owner–No Inlets or Outlets Exist Where Fish Can Escape–No Mitigation or Water Quality Requirements–Applying for 50 Fish or Less–Size of Pond(s) Is Less than 5 acres•How many Triploid Grass Carp Are You Requesting? –How Many Ponds Are at This Site?»Lake Name and Acreage Required

–Physical Address of Body of Water Where Carp Will Be Released»Lake County, Street, City, Zip Code Required

–Are There Any Water Inlets or Outlets to the Water Body? Yes / No–Has Any State, County, City or Other Agency Designated This Site as a Permitted Mitigation or Water Quality Treatment Site, Wherein Specific Aquatic Vegetation Must Be Maintained? Yes / No»Typically SWFMD Will Have This Information

–Riparian (Legal Rights of Waterfront) Ownership•Designate Ownership of the Waterbody and/or Adjacent Property: –Single Owner or Multiple Private Owners?

•Do All Riparian Owners Consent to Stocking of Triploid Grass Carp in This Water Body?

Fill out form on-line, and submit it electronically through this website to FWC. If the application is simple and meets certain criteria, the permit will be issued on-line and the applicant will have no further contact from FWC.

If more information is needed, FWC will contact the applicant. FWC may send an inspector to look at the pond and assess how many grass carp would be

satisfactory, and to assure that the pond will not be overstocked. 23

OnOn--Line Application for a New Triploid Grass Carp PermitLine Application for a New Triploid Grass Carp Permit

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Complete Application To Possess Triploid Grass CarpReceived from Rhonda Howell, Triploid Grass Carp Permitting:In order to complete your Application To Possess Triploid Grass Carp we request the following information:X SWIFTMUD requires your notification on all permits in their district. Please provide signed mitigation form.___Please provide full site address: Number, street and city where water body is located.___Application indicates this is a permitted mitigation or water treatment site.

Please provide completed mitigation form.___Application indicates that this body of water is owned/represented by a Home Owners Assn. Please have the HOA authorized representative sign the barrier form.X Please provide a regional map so someone unfamiliar with the area can find the water body.X Please provide a site map showing street names, water bodies included. Mark all inlets and outlets on map. ___Your application states that there are multiple riparian owners. Once you have obtained 100% consent from owners, please submit their names, addresses and phone numbers on form attached. *All riparian owners must agree to the use of Triploid Grass Carp in order for a permit to be issued*X Please include the additional information requested: 1) Barrier form signed by owner/HOA authorized representative, etc. 2) Photos of the completed barriers.

You will receive a list of required information to complete your application.25

X SWIFTMUD Requires Your Notification on All Permits in Their District

•Southwest Florida Water Management District (District), unofficially nicknamed “Swiftmud” or SWFWMD, is one of five regional agencies directed by Floridastate law to protect and preserve water resources–Includes Charlotte, Citrus, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Levy, Manatee, Marion, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, and Sumtercounties–District HeadquartersSouthwest Florida Water Management District2379 Broad StreetBrooksville, FL 34604-6899(352) 796-7211

•SWIFTMUD Consent for FWC Application for Grass Carp Permit–Presently: Kim L. Schwartz; Sr. Regulation Processing Specialist Tampa Regulation Southwest Florida Water Management District Telephone: (813) 985-7481, ext. 2023 kim.schwartz@watermatters.org

•Contact SWIFTMUD Processing Specialist and Send the Form for Approval•SWIFTMUD Will Send the Form to the FWC (Rhonda)

The FWC requires approval from SWFWMD on all grass carp permits.26

FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA WATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT SUPPLEMENT TO APPLICATION TO POSSESS TRIPLOID GRASS CARP

In order to effectively review the application for triploid grass carp, the SWFWMD requests that you complete the following form. Any questions regarding the release of grass carp into a designated wetland area, mitigation site, or a surface water management system with a mitigation area littoral zone, we recommend you contact the District Environmental Compliance Manager. In addition to the questions below, the District will require you to provide the Environmental Resource Permit number for the specified site and an aerial photograph of the water body(s) you intend to stock grass carp. The District will advise the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission whether they oppose, do not oppose, or have no determination of the stocking of grass carp within the proposed water body(s).Please be advised that littoral areas present in the pond/lake may be building requirements of a local municipality, drainage district and/or county government. Receiving a sign-off from the South West Florida Water Management does not release the applicant from needing to contact the above noted agencies.Applicant Name: Phone Number:

Address: City: State: Zip Code:

Section/Township/Range: County:

Project Name / Permit Number (if known): _____________________________________________Type of Water Body: O Natural Lake O Manmade Retention Pond Other:I have contacted the required agency or agencies and have been advised that:The agency/agencies contacted _____ oppose _____ do not oppose_____ no determination for the stocking of triploid grass carp within the proposed site.Contact person(s) _____________________________ ________________________________Contact agency(s) _____________________________ ________________________________Contact date(s) _____________________________ ________________________________One of the choices in the above section has been checked, and I, the undersigned, certify that the information contained within this document is correct and true to the best of my knowledge.______________________________________________ ______________________________Signature of Applicant Date

*** USE THIS FOR PERMIT REQUESTS IN SWFWMD***Hardee, Highland, Polk, Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, Hillsborough, Pinellas

Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota Counties, please contactCliff Ondercin, Environmental Compliance Manager

(941)377-3722FWC FILE# COUNTY:

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Example: Regional Map for Osprey PondExample: Regional Map for Osprey Pond(Copied from Google Earth (Roads Selected) with Annotations)(Copied from Google Earth (Roads Selected) with Annotations)

Sem

inol

e B

lvd

Sem

inol

e B

lvd

Park BlvdPark Blvd

Osprey PondOsprey Pond

X Please Provide a Regional Map So Someone Unfamiliar with the Area Can Find the Water Body.

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X Please Provide a Site Map Showing Street Names, Water Bodies Included. Mark All Inlets and Outlets on Map.

Site Map for Osprey Pond (The Shores of Long Bayou HOA)27° 49’ 54.34”N, 82° 46’ 24.08”W

Inlet Pipe from Street Storm-Water Runoff

Over-Flow Pipe

6550 Shoreline Drive

6551 Shoreline Driv

e

6495

Sho

relin

e Driv

e

6450 Shoreline Drive 29

FWCFWC Supplement to Application to Possess Supplement to Application to Possess Triploid Grass CarpTriploid Grass Carp: : ““Barriers for Inlets and OutletsBarriers for Inlets and Outlets””

•Need of Barriers–In bodies of water with culverts or canals leading to other areas, screens or gates must be installed to prevent escape of the grass carp. Barriers need to be constructed so the fish cannot jump over them. Screens have proven effective in preventing movement of grass carp while allowing unrestricted movement of water. This type of barrier must have spaces between the bars narrower than the stocked grass carp's body width. –Ensure that the fish will remain in the treatment area for weed control by placing barriers at the control structure. These barriers should be constructed so as to not significantly restrict water flow, and have openings large enough to allow suspended detritus and weed fragments to pass through as well as enable easy maintenance and repair. In most cases the barrier is constructed with PVC. The material is inexpensive, non-corrosive, and durable.

•Barrier Permits–Construction of barriers, especially those that are not maintained, may result in problems with flooding. To reduce the potential for flooding, please contact the agency charged (or your county if that agency is unknown) with water flow management in the site prior to installing barriers. They will be able to provide input as to acceptable barrier design criteria that will meet both your needs and theirs.

•Barriers Required–If barriers are required, please sign and return the enclosed form once the barriers are installed. Some counties require approval of their storm water/ drainage department to ensure that flooding will not result from poorly constructed or maintained barriers. The enclosed form will include the county contact (if known). It is in the best interest of all parties if the agency responsible for drainage is aware of the proposed barrier installation. This will help prevent flooding problems, and ensure approval if the barrier is to be installed on public property. After inspecting the barriers to determine acceptability, FWC will notify you as to their approval. Once barriers are approved, your permit will be issued and you can stock triploid grass carp.

•Barriers Recommended–If barriers are recommended but not required, FWC is not concerned with impact to other waters from fish escaping. FWC suggests that fish be prevented from migrating out of the site and possibly becoming stranded. Since grass carp are an investment, it makes sense to prevent them from escaping. FWC would not be required to approve barriers in this instance, but will assist you in any way possible to ensure fish containment.

With just a slim chance that sterilization may not have been 100% effective, barriers are required in the oft chance that two un-sterilized carp

might get together and start an invasion. 30

FWC Examples of Common Barrier Designs FWC Examples of Common Barrier Designs for Different Outflow Structuresfor Different Outflow Structures

•Barrier Construction–Constructed to Allow a Width of No More than 1½” in Narrowest Dimension–Not Always Advisable to Affix Barriers Directly to Openings in a Culvert or Weir, as They Can Restrict Water Movement–Where Necessary to Maximize Flow Potential, Barriers Should Be Installed in Front of, But Away From, Such Openings–Barriers Should Extend to a Height Above the Normal High-Water Line–Preferable to Utilize a Two-or-Three-Sided Framework Design (V- or Box-Shaped) as Opposed to a Single-Faced Configuration–Advisable to Use a Series of Parallel Rods or Bars, Instead of Grid or Mesh Design, Oriented Either Vertically or Horizontally, and Maintained by Raking Away Debris

•Must Notify FWC Office by Returning “Barriers for Inlets and Outlets” Form When Barriers Are Ready for Inspection•Send Signed Form to:–Grass Carp Permitting, Rhonda Howell, FWC–601 W. Woodward Ave., Eustis, FL 32726–Tel: 352-357-2951 rhonda.howell@myfwc.com

Culvert Canal Grating31

Control Structure

Barriers Designed & Installed by Lowell TrentBarriers Designed & Installed by Lowell Trent•Amur Aquatics, Inc–http://www.amuraquatics.com/barrierpage.html

•Began in 2004, by Lowell Trent, Retired from FWC, Where He Served for 30+ years as Aquatic Botanist•Examples of Lowell’s Barrier Installations:

Ponds and lakes on a piece of property may be inter-connected. The FWC is interested that the grass carp cannot escape from the total property.32

X Please Include the Additional Information Requested: 1) Barrier Form Signed by Owner/HOA Authorized Representative, etc.

2) Photos of the Completed Barriers.•Example: Barriers for Osprey Pond–Constructed with Slits Less than 1½” in Narrowest Dimension–Photographic Evidence Shows •Retention Pond Outlet 1-1/2" Wide Slits•Permanent 200 lb Grating

•Signed Return Form–Signature of Applicant: Earnest A. Franke, Date: 08/16/2011–Lake Name: Osprey Pond, Permit # Shores of Long Bayou 44013154.000-.010•Must Notify FWC Office by Returning Form When Barriers Ready for Inspection

“Only” Method for Water to Exit Osprey Pond

Width of Grating Meets Barrier Requirement

Providing photographic evidence helps the biologist make the proper decision for issuing a permit for triploid grass carp. 33

Example Problem with Barriers: Check with Your MunicipalityExample Problem with Barriers: Check with Your Municipality•According to FWC, a Barrier May Be Added to Inflows or Outflows Through Which Triploid Grass Carp Could Escape•However, the City of Clearwater Discourages the Installation of Carp Barriers–Structures May Interfere with City's Stormwater System or Create Flooding–Recommends Owners of Ponds Find Alternate Solutions to Controlling Pond Vegetation

•Need Written Approval from Clearwater’s Engineering Department to Add Barrier–Building of a Barrier Is Discouraged–Stormwater Management Division Must Approve Plans, Materials and Dimensions for Proposed Triploid Grass Carp Barrier–To Request Approval to Build a Carp Barrier:•Supply Drawings of Proposed Barrier –Clearly Indicating All Dimensions, Types of Materials and Method of Securing Barrier to Inflow or Outflow Device–Contact Information of Owner–Maintenance Plan

–Contact City of Clearwater's Engineering Department for Permission Prior to Construction by Calling (727) 562-4750.

•If Barrier Is Approved by the City and Is Installed, It Is Owner's Responsibility to Finance and Maintain the Structure•If Barrier Is Not Maintained and Interferes with Stormwater Flow, Creates Flooding or Causes Any Other Form of Damage, the Structure Will Be Removed by the City to maintain Continuity of the Stormwater System

It’s always best to check with your local municipality concerning the stormwater system. 34

Received Grass Carp Permit via EReceived Grass Carp Permit via E--mail (2011)mail (2011)

Date: [Thu, 8 Sep 2011 12:25:58 -0400] From: Howell, Rhonda <Rhonda.Howell@MyFWC.com>To: EAFRANKE@TAMPABAY.RR.COM <EAFRANKE@TAMPABAY.RR.COM>

Subject: GRASS CARP Emailing: pr_license_TG-00029396TRIPLOID CARP PERMIT: TG-00029396Sep 08, 2011EARNEST FRANKE 6550 SHORELINE DR APT 7404 ST PETERSBURG, FL 33708

IS AUTHORIZED TO IMPORT, POSSESS AND RELEASE UP TO 3 TRIPLOID GRASS CARP INTO 0.3 ACRE OSPREY POND FOR AQUATIC VEGETATION CONTROL PURPOSES, IN ACCORDANCE WITH RULE 68A-23.088 OF THE FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION AND THE PERMIT PROVISIONS LISTED BELOW:

(1) ONLY TRIPLOID GRASS CARP CERTIFIED BY THE FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION MAY BE STOCKED.

(2) A COPY OF THIS DOCUMENT MUST BE ON BOARD ANY VEHICLE TRANSPORTING THE TRIPLOID GRASS CARP AUTHORIZED UNDER THIS PERMIT. NO EXCHANGE, TRANSFER OR REMOVAL OF TRIPLOID GRASS CARP FROM THE STOCKING SITE IS ALLOWED.

(3) THIS PERMIT WILL REMAIN VALID UNLESS REVOKED BY THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.

(4) TRIPLOID GRASS CARP WILL BE SUBJECT TO SEIZURE BY COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVES IF PERMIT PROVISIONS OR COMMISSION RULES ARE VIOLATED. NICK WILEY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 35

Amending Existing Permit (2015)Amending Existing Permit (2015)REQUEST TO AMEND TRIPLOID GRASS CARP PERMITTriploid Grass Carp Permit Number : TG-00029XXX County: PinellasApplicant Information:Permittee Name/HOA/Business:_ Earnest A. Franke / The Shores of Long Bayou / Condo Mailing Address: 6550 Shoreline Drive, Apt 7404 City: St Petersburg State: FL Zip Code: 33708Complete Site Address: Project Name/Permit Number: The Shores of Long Bayou 44013154.000-.010 Section/Township/Range: 35/30S/15EContact Name and Email/Phone: _Earnest A. Franke / eafranke@tampabay.rr.comLake Management Company: _NoneLake Management Contact Name and Email/Phone: Earnest A. Franke / eafranke@tampabay.rr.com

WATER BODY INFORMATION:Name of water body: _Osprey Pond # of Ponds: _1 Acreage:_0.3 acresBarriers previously required: _X Yes _ No If Yes, installed/in good condition? _X Yes _ NoDate the water body was last stocked: _Sept 2011 Number stocked: _3Ownership: _ Single _ Multiple _ X HOA Mitigated Site: __ No

REASON(S) FOR AMENDMENT REQUEST:( ) New lakes added to original site. Names/New Acreage: _ (X) The original stocking needs to be increased.( ) New site contact – resend latest permit.( ) There was a barrier problem & fish escaped – barriers have been repaired/replaced.(X) Other: _Osprey killed two of the original three carp.Type of vegetation: _ egeria and hydrilla % of vegetation present:_50%Have other forms of plant control been used in the water body? ( X ) yes ( ) noIf yes, check one: ( X ) Herbicide ( ) Mechanical ( X ) Hand removal ( ) Draw downHow soon did you notice a change in the amount of plants after stocking grass carp?( ) 6 months (X) 6 months to 1 year ( ) 1 year to 2 years ( ) Over 2 yearsRequest stocking the following number of additional fish: _3

All Requests Should Be Directed to:Rhonda HowellFFWCC, Eustis Fisheries Lab601 W. Woodward Ave Eustis, FL 32726352-357-2951 Fax: 352-357-2941Rhonda.howell@myfwc.com

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Amendment to Existing Grass Carp PermitAmendment to Existing Grass Carp Permit

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: ATTACHED YOU WILL FIND YOUR PERMIT TO IMPORT, POSSESS, AND TRANSPORT TRIPLOID GRASS CARP FOR AQUATIC VEGETATION PURPOSES IN ACCORDANCE WITH RULE 68A-23.088 AND A LIST OF AUTHORIZED TRIPLOID GRASS CARP DEALERS. WHEN YOU ARRANGE TO PURCHASE FISH, PLEASE PRESENT A PHOTOCOPY OF THE PERMIT TO THE SUPPLIER. IF THE SUPPLIER DOES NOT RECEIVE THIS PERMIT, HE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO DELIVER YOUR FISH TO YOU. THE RECOMMENDED NUMBER OF FISH TO KEEP THE AQUATIC VEGETATION IN YOUR WATER AREA UNDER CONTROL HAS BEEN DETERMINED BY PRELIMINARY RESEARCH CONDUCTED ON 10 INCH OR LARGER FISH. STOCKING SMALLER FISH, WHICH ARE SUBJECT TO HIGHER MORTALITY RATES, OR STOCKING FEWER FISH THAN RECOMMENDED WILL RESULT IN DECREASED SUCCESS IN OBTAINING CONTROL OF AQUATIC VEGETATION IN YOUR WATER AREA. IF YOU CHOOSE TO STOCK FEWER FISH THAN THE RECOMMENDED AMOUNT, YOU MAY CONTINUE TO USE YOUR PERMIT FOR FUTURE PURCHASES UNTIL THE TOTAL NUMBER PERMITTED ARE STOCKED. IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS CONCERNING THIS MATTER OR REQUIRE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE AQUATIC PLANT MANAGEMENT DIVISION OF THE FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION FIELD OFFICE LISTED BELOW. DAVID EGGEMAN, FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSIONEUSTIS FISHERIES RESEARCH LAB, 601 W. WOODWARD AVENUE, EUSTIS, FL 32726

3/30/2015 TRIPLOID CARP PERMIT: TG-00029396FRANKE, EARNEST, 6550 SHORELINE DR APT 7404, ST PETERSBURG, FL 33708 IS AUTHORIZED TO IMPORT, POSSESS AND RELEASE UP TO 3 TRIPLOID GRASS CARP INTO 6.00 ACRE SHORES OF LONG BAYOU OSPREY BLACKBIRD & FOR AQUATIC VEGETATION CONTROL PURPOSES, IN ACCORDANCE WITH RULE 68A-23.088 OF THE FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION AND THE PERMIT PROVISIONS LISTED BELOW: (1) ONLY TRIPLOID GRASS CARP CERTIFIED BY THE FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION MAY BE STOCKED. (2) A COPY OF THIS DOCUMENT MUST BE ON BOARD ANY VEHICLE TRANSPORTING THE TRIPLOID GRASS CARP AUTHORIZED UNDER THIS PERMIT. NO EXCHANGE, TRANSFER OR REMOVAL OF TRIPLOID GRASS CARP FROM THE STOCKING SITE IS ALLOWED. (3) THIS PERMIT WILL REMAIN VALID UNLESS REVOKED BY THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. (4) TRIPLOID GRASS CARP WILL BE SUBJECT TO SEIZURE BY COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVES IF PERMIT PROVISIONS OR COMMISSION RULES ARE VIOLATED. NICK WILEY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The original permit was amended because predators (osprey)had removed several of the original grass carp. 37

Acquiring Triploid Grass CarpAcquiring Triploid Grass Carp•List of FWC-Approved Suppliers Available –FWC Provides List of Triploid Grass Carp Suppliers/Producers–http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/plants/management/Vendor.pdf–List Is Not an Endorsement of Suppliers/Producers or Their Services/Products–Any Transaction Involving Grass Carp That Are to Be Possessed/Transported or Stocked in Florida Must Comply with Rule 68A-23.088

•Reviewed Every Name on FWC-Approved List–Actually Only One Supplier of Grass Carp in Central Florida: FL Fish Farms–Others Will Supply Triploid Grass Carp, But Are Merely Middle-Men•They Will Get Your Permit and Handle Transport•They Will Manage Your Ponds and Advise / Construct Barriers•If You Want to Save Money, DIY•Typical Out-of-State Supplier Shipping Expenses for Air Freight:–$50 minimum Product Order–$80 for Each Box Shipped–Plus Fee for Fish Shipped UPS Overnight AM–Plus $200 Shipping Charge for Truck Delivery to the Airport

•Typical Out-of-State Supplier Willing to Ship a Truck-Load of Grass Carp–Good for Orders of a Thousand Carp–Usually Requires FWC Involvement (>5 acres)

Most out-of-state supplier and pond-management companies referred me to Florida Fish Farms. 38

Acquiring Triploid Grass Carp LocallyAcquiring Triploid Grass Carp Locally•Most Grass Carp Supply Companies Interested in Large Orders•Most Stormwater Ponds Are Small (< 1 acre)•Therefore Most Orders Would be Less Than 10 grass Carp–Order Less Than $100–Not Much Profit for Grass Carp Supplier

•Out-of-State Orders –Require Extra Packaging–Timely Transportation to Air Cargo–Delivery Coordination with Buyer

•If You Are a Do-It-Your Selfer, Then Go to Florida Fish Farm–Florida Fish Farm Is Large Enough for Triploid Program–They Breed for Golf Courses, Municipalities, Estates, etc.

•To Obtain Triploid Grass Carp –Obtain A Permit from FWC–Upon Receipt of Permit, Make an Appointment to Visit Florida Fish Farm•Triploid Grass Carp Are Harvested Only at Certain Times•Small Orders Take Back-Seat to Large Development Orders

–Must Take Your Permit with You–2-hour Drive to Center Hill (close to Webster) from Pinellas County

We have visited Florida Fish Farm four times and have found them to be very helpful each time. 39

Florida Fish Farms, Inc.Florida Fish Farms, Inc.•Address–9684 CR 705, Center Hill, FL 33514–Approximately 40 miles West of Orlando–Close to City of Webster–http://www.floridafishfarms.com/•Visits to Farm Are by Appointment Only:–Contact by Phone Regarding Purchase of Fish–Need to Harvest Order and Ready for Packaging–Normal Business Hours: 8 - 4, Mon. thru Fri., and 8 - until Noon on Sat.•Containers Needed to Transport Fish Home?–Fish Farm Provides Packaging at No Charge on Orders More than $25•Acquiring Carp May Take Time–Florida Fish Farm Doesn’t Harvest Grass Carp Every Week–You Will Need an Appointment to Receive Carp When They Are Ready

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FL Fish Farms Sells about FL Fish Farms Sells about 2,000 Grass Carp Each Week2,000 Grass Carp Each Week

Preparing Grass Carp for Transport from Florida Fish FarmsPreparing Grass Carp for Transport from Florida Fish Farms•Preparation for Transport–Tranquilizer Added to Water to Calm Grass Carp for Transport–FL Fish Farms Package Fish in Plastic Bag–Oxygen Injected into Plastic Bag•Transport Good for 4 to 5 hours

–Bag Placed Inside Cardboard Box for Easy Transport in Trunk of Car

Placing Plastic Bag in Styrofoam Form

Adding the Grass Carp into the Plastic Bag

Filling the Plastic Bag with Oxygen for Transport

Placing the Plastic Bag in the Cardboard Box

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Grass Carp in the Transport Plastic Bag,Grass Carp in the Transport Plastic Bag,Opened for Placement in the Stormwater PondOpened for Placement in the Stormwater Pond

It’s best if the plastic bag is placed in the pond for at least 15 minutes, so that the grass carp can adjust to any temperature differences. 42

Releasing the Grass Carp into the Ibis Pond (2013)Releasing the Grass Carp into the Ibis Pond (2013)

It’s best to rinse your hands in the pond water to remove any contaminant before handling the fish. 43

Releasing Grass Carp in Quail Pond (2015)Releasing Grass Carp in Quail Pond (2015)

In six months, the hydrilla problem in Quail Pond should be solved. With a life expectancy of seven to ten years, we should not have to address

this problem again for ten years, the expected life of a grass carp.

“Room with a View”

The Music of “Born Free” Is Playing in the Background

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Results on Four Stormwater Retention PondsResults on Four Stormwater Retention Ponds•Ponds Become Clear of Hydrilla in 6 months to a Year– May Take One to Two Years for Grass Carp to Control Hydrilla

•Survival Rates of Grass Carp Depend on Factors Such as Otters, Birds of Prey or Fish Disease•Recommended Stocking per Acre–Typically Ten Carp per Acre–Twenty Carp per Acre for Shallow Pond with Predators

•Pond or Lake Will Probably Need Restocking About Every Ten Years–Experience at The Shores of Long Bayou Condominiums•Osprey Pond (0.3 acres): Introduced in 2011 (3 Carp)•Ibis Pond (0.1 acres): Introduced in 2013 (2 Carp)•Lily Pad Pond (0.2 acres): Introduced in 2014 (3 Carp)•Quail Pond (0.15 acres): Introduced in 2015 (2 Carp)

•Small-Quantity Pricing in 2015 $’s from Florida Fish Farms–Pick-Up Fish at Center Hill, FL–8” to 9”: $8.00 each–9” to 10”: $9.00 each–Availability of Fish Is Not Guaranteed, Must Have Reservations

•Notes:–Grass Carp May Be Prevented from Hydrilla by Weeds or Barriers–Hydrilla Anchors Itself Next to Roots of Pickerelweed, Duck potato and Canna

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