The water chestnut is an invasive species that can take a toll on recreational lake activities: it has a blue-green leaf that rests on top of the water and is a stringy plant below that secures itself into the mud and can wrap around motorboat props until they can no longer turn.

But non-native species aren't just a concern for those who like to cruise the lake. Because they have no natural predators in a new environment, they can take over, choking out other natural plant and animal species. The nature of water chestnut growth is such that they create dense mats at the water surface, preventing light from reaching the organisms below.

Water chestnuts in particular are problematic for lake management, because their seeds can have a 12-year life span, meaning you can kill the plants, but they will return unless you remove all of the seeds as well—and you won't know for sure that you've removed all of the seeds, because some may not germinate for years. Zellmann said such an undertaking at Lake Musconetcong would have meant a $330,000 investment every year for more than a decade. "And if you don't do the whole thing, you may as well do nothing."

Several states have made all-out efforts to eradicate water chestnuts from their shores, but the best thing to do is prevent them from making an appearance to begin with. At this point, the Lake Hopatcong Commission is not aware of Water Chestnut being found of Lake Hopatcong.  If you see Water Chestnut on Lake Hopatcong, immediately report it to the Commission office at 973-601-1070.  To learn more about Water Chestnut and how to prevent the spread of invasive species between water bodies, commonly referred to as aquatic hitchhikers, visit www.lakehopatcong.org.  Thanks for your assistance.