Sale of invasive aquatic plants banned in Indiana starting Aug. 31

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WANE) - Indiana's Department of Natural Resources announced on Tuesday the sale of 28 invasive aquatic plants will be banned starting on Friday, August 31.

The new rule, which was recently approved by the Indiana Natural Resources Commission, also makes it illegal for people to barter, exchange, or distribute the plants. It is also illegal for people to offer these plants as gifts.

The purpose of this rule is to help prevent the introduction and distribution of aquatic invasive plants into Indiana's waters and wetlands.

The spread of these invasive aquatic plants can reduce property values around lakes and ponds, negatively impact native aquatic plants, and reduce boating, fishing, and other recreational activities.

Many of these plants have been used in aquariums or water gardens for years. The most popular invasive aquatic plants that are currently being sold are the flowering rush, Brazilian elodea (Anacharis), yellow flag iris, parrot feather, and yellow floating heart.

Click here for the full list of illegal invasive aquatic plants.

To help slow the spread of these species, purchase noninvasive or native plants. Also, boaters are encouraged to remove plants, mud, and other debris from their watercrafts after they remove them from the water.