Oregon Is Working To Keep Mussels Out

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife says it has ramped up its efforts to protect the state’s lakes, rivers, and streams from aquatic invasive species. Seasonal boat inspection stations are now open, and roving crews will be out this year at boat ramps offering watercraft inspections and decontamination. ODFW says even though invasive freshwater mussels have not been detected in the state’s waterways, the risk is now higher than ever before, thanks to the recent discovering of golden mussels in California last year. Combined with quagga mussel detections in Idaho in the Snake River the past two years, the risk of aquatic invasive species spreading to Oregon waterways has been steadily increasing.

“Golden mussels were detected for the first time in North America last year which means the threat to Oregon is very serious,” said Keith DeHart, ODFW Invasive Species Coordinator. “Golden mussels are similar to zebra or quagga mussels, but they can establish in a much wider range of temperatures and water salinity,”

ODFW noted that invasive freshwater mussels can damage water infrastructure, such as irrigation and hydropower systems. Invasive freshwater mussels can also degrade water quality and limit recreational activities such as fishing and boating.

Boaters Asked To Be Prepared Prior To Inspection Stations

ODFW and the Oregon State Marine Board manage the state’s watercraft inspection stations at five entry points around the state. Anyone transporting any type of watercraft—motorized or non-motorized—must stop at open boat inspection stations. This includes kayaks, canoes, rafts, and stand-up paddleboards.

DeHart recommended that boaters can make the process of boat inspections quick and easy by cleaning and draining watercraft before leaving a waterbody. He noted that all boaters must pull their watercraft’s drain plug before leaving Oregon’s waterbodies.

“Clean, drain, and dry is the most effective way to prevent the spread of invasive species,” said DeHart. “And having a clean and dry boat is also the fastest way to get through an inspection station.”