Texas Game Wardens are warning boaters after a duck hunter was cited for bringing invasive plants to Bois d'Arc Lake. The incident occurred when the hunter launched a boat on an infected lake and transported giant salvinia and water hyacinth to a new water body.

The warning highlights how invasive species like these can devastate aquatic ecosystems by blocking sunlight and oxygen. Officials emphasize that boaters must clean, drain and dry their equipment after visiting infested waters. Texas Parks and Wildlife reports that giant salvinia can double from one acre to two acres in just a week under ideal conditions.

This enforcement action demonstrates Texas's commitment to protecting its waterways from ecological damage. The Inland Fisheries Department spent time collecting invasive plants to prevent establishment in Bois d'Arc Lake. Game wardens stress that failure to properly clean boats and equipment can result in citations, making this both an environmental and legal issue for Texas boaters.