Three more Texas lakes are being added to the list of lakes affected by zebra mussels. Lake Livingston, Eagle Mountain Lake and Lake Worth all tested positive for zebra mussels. As we head into the Independence Day weekend, these new findings serve as a good reminder to boaters to “Clean, Drain and Dry” their boats, trailers and gear every time they travel from one lake to another to prevent the spread of zebra mussels and other invasive species.
Since zebra mussels were first found in Texas in 2009, six Texas lakes in three river basins are now fully infested, meaning that they have an established, reproducing population. Zebra mussels have been found on occasion in six other Texas lakes but at this time it is uncertain if those lakes have a viable reproducing population. See the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website for details on affected water bodies.
The rapidly reproducing zebra mussels, originally from Eurasia, can have serious economic, environmental and recreational impacts on Texas reservoirs. Zebra mussels can clog public-water intake pipes, harm boats and motors left in infested waters, completely cover anything left under water and litter beaches with their sharp shells.
(pictured is a severe case)
Social Media