Lake Gibson to be treated, water use restrictions in place | Environment

Lakeland, FL -- Polk County Parks and Natural Resources will use the herbicides, diaquat, flumioxazin, and imazamox to treat Hydrilla on Lake Gibson in Lakeland on Tuesday, June 7.

Following the herbicide application, area residents and business should not use treated lake water for irrigation until further notice.

Testing will begin one week after treatment is complete and will continue each week to determine when the lake water can be used for irrigation.

Swimming and fishing will not be restricted.

Hydrilla is an invasive aquatic weed that grows in many Florida lakes. It can impede water flow, causing flooding, hamper recreational activities such as boating and fishing, and can completely choke out native aquatic life.

For more information or questions about the treatment, call the Polk County Parks and Natural Resources, Invasive Plant Section, at (863) 537-7377.