How TVA Manages Aquatic Plants

TVA Balances Plant Benefits With Public Convenience

Aquatic plants provide habitat for fish and the species they feed on. But there can be too much of a good thing. When aquatic plants block access for recreational use, management is often necessary.

TVA manages aquatic plants in small, developed public-access areas on its reservoirs as needed when recreational use and/or access are hindered. This includes applying EPA-approved aquatic herbicides, using harvesters to cut lanes to deeper water and mowing shorelines.

View the Aquatic Weeds Treatment Schedule

Aquatic Plant Identification

Curious what plants are growing in your favorite reservoir? TVA’s Aquatic Plant Identifier helps identify common plants found along the Tennessee River system. Learn about native and non-native species and easily report invasive plants you encounter on the water.

Or, you can share photos and location by email.

Help Control the Spread of Aquatic Weeds

You can help keep invasive plants out of TVA reservoirs.

Keep it Clean – Remove all plant material from boats, trailers, bilges, live wells and other equipment.
Drain and Dry – Make sure all equipment is dry and free from plant fragments. Even completely dry fragments have the potential to grow once back in the water.
Plant Native Species – Use native plants around shorelines. Non-native plants, like ornamental lilies and water hyacinth, can quickly spread if introduced into the river.
No Dumping – Dispose of unwanted plants from water gardens or aquariums in the garbage. Do not put them in nearby streams or rivers.