This destructive species, originating from Eurasia, can damage boats, clog water intakes and litter shorelines with sharp shells. The way boaters can help slow the spread? Clean, drain and dry all boating equipment before leaving the boat ramp.
Remember, it is unlawful to possess or transport zebra mussels, dead or alive, in the State of Texas. It is required that boaters drain all water from their boat and any on-board receptacles before leaving or approaching a body of fresh water to prevent the transfer of zebra mussels. The draining requirement applies to all types and sizes of boats: personal watercraft, sailboats, kayaks/canoes or any other vessel used on public waters. Zebra mussel larvae are microscopic. Both the larvae and adult mussels can survive for days on boats transported from a lake. This is especially so during cooler fall months.
Visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department‘s website for the full story.
For more information on Zebra Mussels and learn more about stopping their spread in our lakes, visit the Texas Invasives’ website.