Lake Bistineau Invaded By Giant Salvinia

"Theyre causing alot of problems to the park right now, and Im hoping they can find a way to get it out of here," park ranger Chris Caswell said.

The Lousiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department estimates the plant is currently covering about 3 thousand acres of the lake.

"Its progressively getting worse and since this year, it seems to be the worst. After the drawdown, its coming back with a vengence," Caswell continued.

Giant salvinia keeps oxygen from entering the water, which can ultimatley harm the wildlife. Its gotten so thick, park officials have stopped renting out boats and are restricting some swimming areas.

Despite the invasion, some are getting by just fine. While others just cant seem to win. When the Chandlers take their own boat on the water, theyre usually forced to stop.

"You think when you go through it, it will part. No, it just comes right back together and clogs up and see it goes all against there and hits the motor," Susie Chandler said.

he state has tried for years to combat the problem, but still hasnt found a solution. Caswell says if something isnt done, the park wont be the same. And things could get worse.

"If we cant find a way to stop it, its going to shut down all the boat traffic in the park," he said.

The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department is treating the lake with an experimental chemical called "galyon". If it works, results will begin to show in about a month.