FWC continuing restoration, plant management work on East Lake Toho

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) plans to conduct cattail management on East Lake Tohopekaliga (Toho) on Wednesday, Oct. 27, as part of continued work on the East Lake Toho Drawdown and Habitat Enhancement Project. Regrowth of dense cattail in East Lake Toho will be managed with a combination of selective herbicide and prescribed fire.

Target areas are the west and north shorelines of East Lake Toho, which include Hilliard Island, East Lake Fish Camp and around the mouth of Boggy Creek. A total of 127 acres will be managed and, due to the scale of the project, management will be conducted using helicopters.

Cattail will be treated with a selective herbicide, which does not negatively impact beneficial native species, such as bulrush, spatterdock, spikerush, duck-potato, Kissimmee-grass and maidencane. Prescribed burns in these areas are planned for Winter/Spring 2022 to further enhance habitat. These treatments should allow native plants to quickly grow after management. In addition to improving habitat for fish and wildlife, this project will also increase access for anglers, hunters and other users.

For general waterbody information, fishing forecasts, virtual tours, plant control operation schedules and annual workplans, boat ramp information, and more, visit the “What’s Happening on My Lake” website at MyFWC.com/Lake. 

FWC staff will be present to ensure all agency protocols are being followed. For questions about this project, contact FWC biologist, Adriene Landrum at 407-846-5269.