State health officials warn of algae blooms in lakes and rivers msn.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from msn.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
BILL POTEAT
Alligator weed won t eat chickens, cats, or small dogs, but it can put a hurting on Gaston County lakes and rivers.
Think about it as kudzu on the water - just as prolific in its growth and just as difficult to contain.
A century ago, the weed grew naturally only in the temperate regions of South America, including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay.
But, due to its parasitic nature, it hitched a ride aboard a cargo ship or two and has since become established across the southeastern United States, including in the waters of the South Fork, the Catawba, and Lake Wylie.