The Cost to Manage Invasive Aquatic Weeds in the California Bay-Delta

Abstract

Invasive aquatic weeds have become an increasing problem in the California Bay-Delta, with Brazilian waterweed and water hyacinth being particular problems. In 2014 and 2015, large mats of water hyacinth began to choke Delta waterways, increasing control costs of a variety of public agencies and marinas. Between 2013 and 2016, these groups spent about $46 million to manage all invasive aquatic weeds.