GUNTERSVILLE, Ala. — The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is ramping up efforts to manage invasive eelgrass in Guntersville Reservoir with the addition of two new harvesters and key partnerships. The invasive species has largely displaced the region’s native eelgrass, threatening the reservoir’s ecosystem and affecting boat ramps, swim beaches, and piers.
TVA’s Aquatic Plant Management Program, which includes weekly surveys, herbicide treatments, and the use of multiple harvesters, is working to clear boat lanes and maintain public access. “TVA employees are committed to evolving and learning, and they’re working hard with partners to find innovative solutions,” said Lauren Pelto, South Region Government & Community Relations Director for the Tennessee Valley Authority. “That means TVA, agency partners, researchers and the public have to work together to tackle it.”
Collaboration with organizations like My Lake Guntersville and Mississippi State University is vital to combat the invasive eelgrass. In fiscal year 2025, TVA added two harvesters to aid in the removal of floating eelgrass, helping manage both public and private areas of the reservoir. The program also utilizes EPA-approved herbicides to treat the spread of the invasive species…