Urgent Bulletin: Check Your Docks & Boats for Zebra Mussels This Fall
Dear Community Members,
We are writing to inform you about a pressing threat to our local waterways – the arrival of invasive Zebra Mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) - and to request your assistance in monitoring for them by inspecting your docks, buoys, moorings, boats, and other watercraft when you remove them for the Winter.
Photo: Dave Britton, US Fish and Wildlife Service
What Are Zebra Mussels?
Zebra Mussels are very small freshwater mussels that can wreak havoc on freshwater ecosystems and infrastructure. A population of Zebra Mussels was recently identified in New Brunswick for the first time, meaning vigilance and early detection are vital to prevent further spread within the province. For more information, visit our Zebra Mussel page.
Photo: Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org
Photo: Tahoe Boat Inspection
How To Check for Zebra Mussels
Unlike our native freshwater mussels, Zebra Mussels attach themselves directly to surfaces using sticky basal threads; they are often found clustered together on docks, boats and other water-related infrastructure so removing this equipment at the end of the season is a prime opportunity to check for new populations. Here's what you can do:
Learn What to Look For: Zebra Mussels are very small (no bigger than a thumbnail) and are usually found in clusters. They have distinctive zigzag stripes but can sometimes appear bleached as they get older. Young mussels can be very small, so look closely. Photos of what to look for are included below.
Inspect Your Dock & Other Infrastructure: Examine any parts that are in contact with the water, especially the undersides and pillars, for clusters of Zebra Mussels. They are typically small, about the size of a thumbnail, and have distinctive zigzag stripes. Very young mussels can be even smaller, so look closely.
Check Boats and Equipment: Inspect your boats, kayaks, and any other watercraft for zebra mussels clinging to the hulls or motors. Inspect the engine and other internal components (bilge pumps, ballast tanks, live wells) if doing maintenance.
Report Any Infestations: If you suspect you’ve found Zebra Mussels or are unsure, please take a photo and report it to NBISC or Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO).
Photo: Saugeen Times
Photo: Texas Parks and Wildlife
Photo: Griffiths R, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wikimedia Commons
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Why Are Zebra Mussels a Concern?
Zebra mussels pose a significant threat to our freshwater environments for several reasons:
Water Quality: These small, invasive mussels filter large quantities of plankton from the water, which can disrupt the food chain.
Infrastructure Damage: Zebra mussels attach themselves to various structures, including docks, boats, and water intake pipes. Their sharp shells can damage equipment and recreational infrastructure, and their dense infestations can clog and block infrastructure, leading to costly maintenance and repairs.
Native Species Disruption: The competition for resources with native species can lead to declines in native populations and a loss of biodiversity. They pose a particular threat our native freshwater mussels, which they will outcompete for resources and habitat.
Economic Impact: Zebra mussel infestations can harm industries such as tourism, boating, and fishing, by altering the ecosystem those industries rely on. Costs of management and removal of Zebra mussels from infrastructure can be very high.
Prevention is Key – CLEAN DRAIN DRY!
Preventing the spread of zebra mussels is crucial to safeguarding our community's water resources. The main way they are spread to new waterbodies is by ‘aquatic hitchhiking’ on boats and other equipment that goes in the water. Here are some preventative measures:
Always CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY your boats and equipment after use in different water bodies especially in the Wolastoq/Saint John River. Cleaning with hot water is vital for removing Zebra Mussels.
Avoid purchasing used infrastructure (floating docks, buoys, etc.) from infested waterbodies if possible; always CLEAN DRAIN and DRY any second-hand equipment before putting it in the water.
Educate friends and neighbors about the threat of zebra mussels and the importance of CLEAN DRAIN DRY.
- - - - -
For any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at director@nbinvasives.ca or (506) 262-6247.
Thank you for your vigilance and cooperation in this critical effort. Let's unite to keep our lakes and rivers healthy and Zebra Mussel-free!