An infestation of invasive mussels is an immediate threat to Lake Tahoe. The quagga and zebra mussels reproduce and colonize quickly and if introduced to Lake Tahoe would do irreparable damage to our ecosystem.
Boat inspectors have already discovered a number of invasive species on boats attempting to launch at Lake Tahoe. In May, 2010, a few days after roadside inspection sites opened, inspectors found New Zealand mud snails in a boat trying to enter Tahoe.
Luckily, the boats have been quarantined and decontaminated. But we all must realize that quagga and zebra mussels can often be extremely difficult to see. Please help us to protect Lake Tahoe by taking the following precautions:
- If you are planning to launch a boat from shore and the boat has been in any other body of water, be sure to clean, drain, and dry it completely. Give it a thorough visual inspection. If you notice anything suspicious, take it to a public boat launch where it can be examined by a certified inspector.
- All public boat launches and marinas are now staffed by a boat inspector who examines boats for evidence of mussels. Boat launches are only open when an inspector is present.
- Inspection fees for motorized boats range from $20-$120, depending on the size of boat. All funds go directly to the inspection program. There is currently no charge to inspect a nonmotorized watercraft.
For more information, visit www.protecttahoe.org.
