Oregon Continues The Fight Against Aquatic Invasive Species

Invasive freshwater mussels cause millions of dollars in damage to dams, irrigation equipment and the food chain.  That's why Oregon has boat inspection stations.

Keith DeHart, the Invasive Species Coordinator for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, said quagga mussels were found in the Snake River at Twin Falls, ID.

"Currently, not in Oregon but they are knocking on our door and we're really concerned about them," he noted.

DeHart added the mussels move in water left inside a boat.  When they reach a river, they're difficult to stop, especially with endangered fish.

"If we're dealing with ESA salmon and steelhead waters, our options are more limited than if they're in a stream or a lake that does not have ESA listed species in it," DeHart said.

A boat was stopped recently in southern Oregon with quagga mussels from Lake Havasu, AZ.  Boats are decontaminated with hot water.  Owners are urged to drain boats and keep them dry.

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