Albany, NY (WIBX) - Boaters and fishermen aren't the only ones battling hydrilla in some of New York's waters. The Department of Environmental Conservation is joining the fight, too.

According to the agency, emergency regulations have been adopted to stop the invasive plant's spread through the Cayuga Inlet.

The new rules allow fluridone pellets (an aquatic herbicide) to be added to water less than 2 feet deep for 90 days, to treat existing hydrilla. The DEC will then renew the measures until a permanent rule is made.

Reasons for concern lie in the proximity of the infestation and its ease of movement to other areas. Cayuga Inlet and Cayuga Lake are part of the Erie Canal system, which connects to several major rivers and lakes throughout the state.

If left alone, hydrilla spreads quickly and competes with other aquatic plants. It is also able to grow from fragments and can be easily carried by boats to other areas.

Impact statements issued by the DEC claim the fluridone pellets will have not have a  financial or health-related impact on the general public.

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