The primary issue at Lake Conroe is the need to enhance littoral habitat including the native aquatic plant community while controlling invasive exotic aquatic vegetation. Native vegetation restoration was begun in by Texas Parks and Wildlife TPWD and its partners, but increased nutrient loading caused by rampant urbanization along with attrition of the grass carp population led to a re-infestation of the reservoir by hydrilla and water hyacinth.
In addition, the exotic aquatic fern, giant salvinia, was discovered in Lake Conroe in Hydrilla, water hyacinth, and giant salvinia are now under control, but as a result of grass carp stockings as part of the integrated pest management IPM strategy, native vegetation was greatly reduced.
Size and Scope of the Lake Conroe Project: The primary issue at Lake Conroe is the need to enhance littoral habitat including the native aquatic plant community while controlling invasive exotic aquatic vegetation. During phase 2 of the project 5 miles of the Lake Conroe shoreline were planted with native aquatic vegetation focusing on grass carp tolerant species to increase littoral fish and wildlife habitat, sequester excess nutrients, filter the water column, stabilize bottom sediments, control erosion, and fill empty niches to help control exotic aquatic plant species.
Also during phase 2, four one-acre structural habitat areas fishing hot spots were created in the lower reservoir to increase fish production and angling success. Throughout the project educational efforts including magazine articles, outreach events, presentations, and a native vegetation restoration manual have continued to increase awareness of the need for controlling the spread of exotic aquatic plants and animals including zebra mussels and conserving the resources of Lake Conroe and the San Jacinto River Watershed.
Typically some aspect of the Lake Conroe Habitat Project is reported in these media outlets at least once a month. Benefits, Achievements, and Potential for Success: The Habitat Enhancements for Fisheries and Ecosystem Improvement at Lake Conroe, Texas project is designed to provide self-sustaining and expanding habitat improvements that will continue to improve the Lake Conroe ecosystem for fish and other wildlife and human uses.
