There have been a couple of close calls this summer with invasive species in the Adirondack Park. Lake Stewards intercepted an incredibly aggressive aquatic plant, called Hydrilla, at a boat launch on Upper Saranac Lake. Local leaders, lake associations, and environmental groups warn Hydrilla, which spreads rapidly and creates thick, dense mats of plants, could clog pristine waterways in the Adirondacks. That could have a huge impact on the ecosystem of lakes and ponds, and the economies of communities that depend on tourism and recreation. Programs that fund lake stewards and inspectors have been targeted for cuts or elimination by the Trump Administration.