Caddo Lake Ecosystem Threatened

CADDO LAKE — Caddo Lake in Northeast Texas is known for its maze of bayous and bald cypress trees draped in Spanish Moss. the lake is popular today for its fishing, camping and boating. However, it is in danger of being overtaken by some non-native plant species that threaten its fragile ecosystem. Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples says there are two main threats. He says the plants reduce the oxygen levels in the water and clog the waterways — and that threatens the fish, waterfowl and other wildlife that depend on the lake for survival. Staples says crews are using chemical treatments and introducing weevils that eat the plants.