Fishermen everywhere recognize that aquatic vegetation is the lifeblood of a healthy lake. It provides food, improves water quality, and offers vital cover for bass fingerlings to hide from predators, allowing them to grow into trophy-size adults. While most agree that weeds like Hydrilla need to be controlled, the method of control remains a subject of intense debate.
The Problem with Total Eradication
Currently, government agencies often mandate the use of toxic chemicals or "total eradication" methods. One such method involves the introduction of grass carp.
While grass carp were brought to Lake Conroe to eat unwanted vegetation, the result was a catastrophe: they ate all the vegetation. This left the lake unhealthy and unsuited for fish survival. Lake Conroe is now undergoing a grueling process of reintroducing "good" aquatic vegetation in hopes that the fish will eventually return.
The S.M.A.R.T. Alternative
S.M.A.R.T. (Smart Management of Aquatic Resources Team) is a non-profit formed to educate the media and government on the hazards of chemical treatment. Their preferred solution is the Mechanical Harvester.
How the Harvester Works:
- Efficiency: Cuts up to one acre of Hydrilla per hour.
- Precision: Mows to a depth of 5–6 feet, leaving bottom habitat intact.
- Process: The machine (weighing up to 14,000 lbs) cuts the weeds, squeezes out the water, shreds the material, and returns it to the ecosystem as mulch.
- Proven Success: In Minnesota and Tennessee, users report that fishing quality and water clarity have improved significantly since implementing mechanical harvesting.
Education and Media
In partnership with renowned cinematographer Glenn Lau (creator of the legendary film Big Mouth Forever), S.M.A.R.T. has developed an educational documentary. The film focuses on the environmental impact of herbicides and is intended for use in Texas secondary schools to teach the next generation of outdoorsmen about aquatic management.
Fundraising: "An Evening with Ray Scott"
S.M.A.R.T. has already raised $65,000 (60% of their goal) to purchase a harvester for the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD).
To close the gap, a second major fundraiser is scheduled:
- When: June 19th
- Where: Arlington Convention Center, Arlington, TX
- Guests: Ray Scott (B.A.S.S. Founder), Roland Martin, Bob Cobb, Glenn Lau, and Earl Bentz.
- Highlights: The premiere of Glenn Lau’s new film and a raffle for a 1999 Chevy Suburban and a Triton Bass Boat.
Leadership and Coalition
The organization’s strength lies in its massive coalition of industry "giants" and conservation groups.
Board of Directors:
- President: David Stewart
- VP: Ed Parten
- Treasurer: Lindy Ellason
- Secretary: Bill Bales
- Asst. Sec/Treas: Pat McCarty
- Advisory Board: Ray Scott, Earl Bentz, Ray Murski, Harold Sharp, Jerry Dean, and others.
Member Organizations: This movement includes a "who’s who" of Texas fishing and environmental groups, including Texas Black Bass Unlimited (TBBU), Texas Association of Bass Clubs (TABC), the Sierra Club of Texas, Clean Water Action, and Honey Hole Magazine.
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