Herbicide Treatments Curb Invasive Weed on Lake Chatuge, but Full Eradication Still Unlikely

Hiawassee, Ga. — Efforts to control an invasive aquatic weed that spread rapidly across Lake Chatuge in recent years have shown promising results, though experts caution that full eradication remains unlikely.

Local environmental groups, including MountainTrue and Save Lake Chatuge, coordinated a large-scale treatment campaign targeting parrot feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum), a South American plant known for forming thick mats that choke waterways and block boat traffic.

The infestation, discovered in 2022 near the south end of the lake in Towns County, prompted growing concern among residents and boaters as the dense vegetation began to interfere with recreation and threaten water quality.

After fundraising efforts and coordination with the Tennessee Valley Authority, contractors with Aqua Services applied an EPA-approved herbicide, ProcellaCOR, in multiple zones around the lake in 2024. The chemical targets both the stems and roots of the plant, reducing the chance of regrowth.

By mid-2024, much of the visible parrot feather had disappeared from treated areas, according to updates from Save Lake Chatuge. Some submerged patches, found at depths of up to six feet, remain under observation.

“We’re thrilled with the progress,” the group said in an August update. “The dense, mat-like growth has been significantly curtailed, and we’ve successfully reduced the spread.”

Environmental advocates say the results mark a significant win for the popular mountain lake, which straddles the Georgia–North Carolina border and draws thousands of visitors each year. Still, they warn that the hardy weed is unlikely to be eliminated completely.

“Research tells us parrot feather is extremely difficult to eradicate,” MountainTrue reported. “Our goal now is long-term control and suppression.”

Officials and volunteers plan to continue monitoring and retreating problem areas as needed in the coming years. Residents are encouraged to clean boats and equipment to prevent further spread.

The project, estimated to cost more than $250,000 in its first phase, is expected to serve as a model for other regional lakes battling similar aquatic invasions.