Invasive Species

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Aquatic Invasive Species

Aquatic Species are organisms that invade ecosystems beyond their natural range. They may harm native ecosystems and commercial and agricultural industries. They also impact recreational activities that are dependent on aquatic ecosystems.

People play a major role in spreading Invasive Species either intentionally or unintentionally. The deliberate transfer of invasives are intentional introductions such as when a person dumps the contents of their home aquarium into a lake, river or stream. Unintentional introductions are when invasives are transferred accidentally such as when a ship's ballast water is exchanged.

Invasive Species can be spread by ships, boats, barges, aquaculture, agriculture, connected waterways or types of fishing gear. Thousands of terrestrial and aquatic species have been introduced into the United States costing billions annually.

Lake Tahoe's ecosystem with its many rivers, lakes and streams is particularly vulnerable to many types of Aquatic Invasive Species.

Some examples of Aquatic Invasive Species posing a threat to Lake Tahoe are:

• Quagga Mussel
• Zebra Mussel
• New Zealand Mudsnail
• Eurasian water milfoil
• Curly leaf pondweed
• Warm-Water Fishes

Don't Move a Mussel!

Boaters can help prevent the spread of these invasive species by following these precautions when leaving the water:

• Drain the water from your boat motor, live well and bilge on land before you leave the immediate area of the water you are on. This applies to personal watercraft as well.
• Completely inspect your vehicle, vessel and trailer.
• Remove all visible mussels, but don't forget to feel for any rough or gritty spots. These may be young mussels that can be hard to see.
• Flush the boat hull, motor and bilges with hot, soapy water.
• Clean all equipment with a 5% bleach solution.
• Air-dry your boat, personal watercraft or other equipment for at least five days before moving to a new body of water.
• Do not re-use bait in a new body of water.
• Clean sensitive gear, like diving and fishing equipment, with hot water (140 degrees F) or soak it in warm saltwater*, rinse and then air-dry before using the equipment elsewhere.
  *(1/2 cup iodized salt per gallon of water)

Remember, Don't Move a Mussel!

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service along with the National Park Service, California Department of Fish & Game, Nevada Department of Wildlife, Tahoe Regional Planning Agency and the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit have begun an extensive campaign to educate the public about the Quagga Mussel and how you can help stop the spread of this invasive species.

Related Links

100thmeridian.org
www.protectyourwaters.net/
www.tahoercd.org/AquaticInvasives.php

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