Aquatic Vegetation Monitoring Program

The Aquatic Vegetation Monitoring Program (AVM) is a volunteer-supported initiative designed to monitor and document the presence and changes in Hydrilla beds as well as other non-native and/or invasive vegetation in Smith Mountain Lake. The primary objective for the 2026-2027 season is to evaluate the effectiveness of Sterile Grass Carp (SGC) in reducing invasive aquatic vegetation and to track changes in Hydrilla over time. Data collected will be shared in collaboration with APCO, SMLA, and other organizations to support aquatic vegetation surveys.

Get Involved

If you have invasive aquatic vegetation around your cove or impacting your recreation, consider becoming an Aquatic Vegetation Monitor. The success of AVM relies on a network of volunteers to help us track the changes in vegetation beds over time to support data-driven aquatic management decisions.

MONITOR TASKS

Inspection Frequency: Once per month (May through September).
Area Assignment: Each monitor will be responsible for a designated area convenient to them; this could be part of a cove, an area they frequently boat, or simply the area around their dock.
Target Response: Monitors may also be requested to inspect specific locations based on incoming reports.

Reports

Reports of suspected Hydrilla may be submitted to TLAC via phone, email, or the online reporting form. Once a report is received:

A monitor for the area will be notified and requested to complete a field inspection.
Findings will be documented with the following information:
- Photos
- Exact GPS coordinates
- Estimated patch size
- Plant height
- Distance from shoreline
- Water depth

*In 2026, APCO will conduct a full lake survey. In 2027, TLAC will expand volunteer monitor areas to cover at-risk areas.