Serious Threats to Aquatic Habitats
Protect Water Resources from Zebra and Quagga Mussels |
The Colorado Division of Wildlife is concerned by the serious threat posed to our aquatic habitats by two non-native/invasive aquatic mussels —the Zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) and the Quagga mussel (Dreissena bugensis).
The primary method of overland dispersal of these mussels is through human-related activities. Given their ability to attach to hard surfaces and survive out of water, many infestations have occurred by adult mussels hitching rides on watercraft. The microscopic larvae also can be transported in bilges, ballast water, live wells, or any other equipment that holds water.
These mussels can settle in massive colonies that can block water intake and affect municipal water supply and agricultural irrigation and power plant operation. In the United States, Congressional researchers estimated that zebra mussels alone cost the power industry $3.1 billion in the 1993-1999 period, with their impact on industries, businesses, and communities more than $5 billion.
In order to help protect Colorado’s water resources, personal watercraft and recreational opportunities, your vessel may be inspected by authorized personnel at certain waters or check stations for Aquatic Nuisance Species. They are there to provide you with additional information about aquatic nuisance species and further educate you about your role in maintaining recreational watercraft opportunities across the state. They may ask you for additional information about your boating habits, where you’ve been, where you are going, etc. This information will enable us to further refine our management strategy for preventing the spread of aquatic nuisance species.
All boaters and other water craft recreational users should take simple, precautionary steps every time they go to a lake, river or stream. Before leaving a lake or other waterway, always Drain, Clean, and Dry. Remember, many of these aquatic hitchhikers can harm your boat as well. These invaders will attach themselves to boats and can cause damage to boat motors if they block the flow of cooling water through the engine.
Read the following news releases to find out where they are at and what to do: