Today (3/1/2026) in the afternoon I utilized a Stand Up Paddleboard and surveyed the areas near the shoreline of Lake Mystic (Liberty County Florida) in search of Hydrilla. The water was clear and cold, it had been undisturbed by recent boat traffic so the clarity of the water was optimal. I paid close attention to the areas where the Hydrilla had been recently reported (near Mike Simpson’s dock, under Ridge Robinson’s dock and around the Justice house dock on the east side of the lake). Hydrilla has been seen and treated on the west side of the lake but I have not seen it on the east side of the lake (yet).
No Hydrilla was spotted along the southside of the lake or around the cove. The first Hydrilla observed was just north of Mike Simpson’s dock. There were three small patches of Hydrilla spotted growing on the lake bottom. These were very small patches and they were no doubt Hydrilla. (See photos).
I continued to work my way north and after being told Hydrila was growing under the Robinson’s dock I did find a small amount growing next to the leg of their dock ladder in about 3ft of water.
I observed a lot of new growth green grass under and around the Robinson’s dock (as had been reported). This grass was short and obviously new growth. It did NOT appear to me to be Hydrilla but probably another type of aquatic plant called Cambomba or Brittle Naiad, both of which are invasive aquatic weeds. I’m no plant expert but it did not appear to me to be Hydrilla.
I continued paddling north and did not see anymore Hydrilla until I came upon a dock with two holes underneath it in about 2ft of water. A small amount of Hydrilla was spotted in both holes.
No Hydrilla was observed along the north side of the lake. I spotted some suspect grass under Greg Granger’s dock but I don’t believe it is Hydrilla but probably Cabomba.
I continued paddling along the east side of the lake until I got to the area out from the Justus’s dock. There was a heavy amount of aquatic weeds growing in this area. The weeds were thick and some had grown all the way up to the surface of the water (approximately 2ft deep). There was a large amount of grass in this area. This grass grew like Hydrilla but the leaves were not as broad as Hydrilla leaves, leading me to believe this could be Cabomba or Coontail. Regardless of what it is it has taken over this area and needs to be removed.
The grass in front of the Justus’ dock was prolific and thick. Although it may very well be Hydrilla it does not look exactly like the Hydrilla I have seen, the leaves are too thin. Regardless this plant needs to be removed soon.
I continued to paddle the rest of the way around the lake, no further suspected plants were observed anywhere else.
I have additional photos and videos however the photos in this blog covers what was observed in the lake today.
Thank You. Dave Ferrell
Blackwater Images 