Quagga / Zebra mussels ruin boats and destroy waters, and could result in an environmental and economic disaster. They can cause a shift in native species, and disrupt the ecological balance of entire bodies of water.
Originally from the Black and Caspian Sea drainages in Eurasia, these invasive, freshwater mollusks (clams) attach to any hard surface, usually attaching in clusters. They commonly have alternating light and dark stripes, hence their common name, "zebra" mussels.
Ranging in size from microscopic to two inches long, their razor-sharp shells readily cut hands and feet.
A single adult female can release over a million eggs in one season...
These mussels are a nuisance for fishermen and boaters, ruining boat motors, equipment, clogging cooling systems, fouling hulls and jamming sailboats' centerboard wells. They quickly clog power plant and public water intakes and pipes as well, making routine, expensive treatment necessary.
Zebra and Quagga mussels easily spread to new habitats on boats trailered by both the public and commercial haulers. They also attach themselves to bait buckets, lures, fishing poles and other aquatic recreational equipment. You might unintentionally transport their microscopic larvae in water held in your boat's well or bilge.
If your boat has been in infested waters, it could be carrying these invasive mussels.
Please take precautions to help us reduce the risk that these mussels will spread into our beautiful lake - and reduce the risk that you will be taking these tiny mussels home with you where they will infiltrate YOUR water system. Before launching your boat - and before leaving - inspect everything!
Follow these simple steps:
- Inspect all exposed surfaces - mussels feel like sandpaper.
- Wash the hull thoroughly, removing all visible mud, plants and animal material.
- Drain all water from your boat and equipment, and dry all areas.
- Wash and dry everything that came in contact with water including shoes, clothing, dogs, equipment, ramps, boats, trailers, etc.
- Dispose of bait in the trash.
- Wait 5 days - keep watercraft dry between launches into different fresh water areas.
Please report seeing Zebra or Quagga mussels to the Ruth Lake Community Service District: (707) 574-6332