State DOW issues the following Zebra Mussel Alert

ZEBRA MUSSEL ALERT

Boating fishermen can expect an inspection of their equipment at numerous popular reservoirs this summer.

 The Colorado State Parks Board recently approved a statewide mandatory boat inspection program to protect the state's waters from aquatic invasive species (AIS) including zebra mussels, which were discovered in Pueblo Reservoir.

Inspections also are required at a number of waters such as Standley Lake and Aurora Reservoir that are administered by other entities.  

Zebra mussels are a non-native invasive mollusk that is harmful to the environment and parks officials are taking steps necessary to try to contain their spread.

All boats including motors, trailers and related equipment will be subject to inspection for any non-native plant material and aquatic wildlife identified as AIS prior to launch or departure from state-park waters. Boats may be denied access or placed under quarantine if inspection is refused or if AIS are found on or within a boat or boating equipment.

Inspections will begin at Pueblo and expand this spring to four other state parks that have been identified as high risk for transport of AIS: Navajo, Cherry Creek, Chatfield and John Martin.

Inspections are necessary because AIS are transported over land to other bodies of water by hitchhiking on recreational vehicles including boats, jet skis and boat trailers. Unchecked, these organisms will quickly spread and out-compete native species.

Aquatic nuisance species have no effective predators and have detrimental impacts on the environment, recreation, water quality and water transport.  Several other aquatic nuisance species have reached Colorado, including New Zealand mud snails and water weeds.

All boaters are encouraged to follow these practices to help prevent the spread of AIS:

Before leaving any body of water, boaters should:

• Drain the water from the boat, livewell and lower units of the engine.
• Clean the hull of the boat
• Dry the boat, fishing gear and equipment
• Inspect all exposed surfaces
• Remove all plant an animal material