State Asks Boaters To Help Control Invasive Species

Sacramento, CA — The invasive Quagga mussel has been found in California waterways, which has agencies scrambling to assess and monitor the infestation.

The state Department of Fish and Game says the ecosystem-killing species was discovered this month at Lake Havasu and about 14 miles to the north.

Additionally, earlier this month, the mussels were discovered at Nevada´s Lake Mead. The department says if left unchecked, the mussels can alter the ecology of California water bodies and cause maintenance problems for water suppliers.

Work is underway to seek the public´s help in preventing their spread. Fish and Game Director Ryan Broddrick says boaters´ help is critical.

The department says to inhibit the spread of the mussels, wash the hull of any watercraft once it leaves the water, drain any water and make sure areas are dry. Also, any vessel traveling from Lake Mead should remain dry and out of water for five days.

For more information, contact (866) 440-9530 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Written by Vanessa Turner.