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.