The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages over 5.5 million surface acres of water at its reservoir projects. Significant additional acreage is managed as part of navigation projects. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC), Environmental Laboratory, Aquatic Plant Control Research Program (APCRP) in Vicksburg, MS is the nation’s only federally authorized research program directed to develop technology for the management of non-indigenous aquatic plant species.

APCRP research produces information on the growth and ecological requirements of problem aquatic plants and is producing new biological, chemical, and ecological technologies for their management. Specific information on the biology and ecology of problem aquatic plants, obtained through research in the program, has greatly improved the efficacy and diversity of management options, while minimizing adverse effects on the environment.

APCRP research efforts are currently focused on the development of ecologically based, integrated plant management strategies for submersed aquatic plants (i.e., Eurasian watermilfoil and hydrilla). In addition, innovative technologies are being developed to prevent the initial introduction and spread of non-indigenous aquatic plant species, and to replace problem aquatic plants with native species, providing much-improved aquatic habitat for fish and wildlife. These new technologies will be a significant asset in implementing clean water initiatives by restoring aquatic systems harmed by non-indigenous aquatic plant species.

View publications going back to 1976 under Technology Transfer (Technical Reports, Technical Notes, Miscellaneous Papers, Contract Reports and Information Bulletins).