Welcome to “Don’t Move A Mussel” Invasive Mussel Prevention Program

Protecting Our Waters: The Invasive Mussel Challenge

Invasive species pose a significant threat to our ecosystems, and one particularly troublesome intruder is the invasive mussel. These small but highly destructive creatures can wreak havoc on aquatic environments, disrupting ecosystems, damaging infrastructure, and threatening recreational activities. The “Don’t Move A Mussel” program is our proactive response to this threat, aimed at preventing the spread of invasive mussels and safeguarding our waterways for future generations.

Understanding the Threat

Invasive mussels, such as the zebra mussel and quagga mussel, are not native to North America but have been introduced through various means, primarily through ballast water discharge from boats. Once introduced, these mussels multiply rapidly, outcompeting native species for resources and causing widespread ecological imbalances. Their small size and ability to attach to hard surfaces make them particularly difficult to control once established.

 
The “Don’t Move A Mussel” Solution
The program revolves around a simple yet powerful message: “Prevention is Key.” By taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of invasive mussels, we can mitigate their impact and protect our waterways. Here’s how the “Don’t Move A Mussel” program works:

Education and Outreach: We believe that knowledge is the first line of defense against invasive species. Through educational campaigns, workshops, and outreach events, we raise awareness about the threat of invasive mussels and provide individuals and organizations with the information they need to take action.

Boat Inspections and Decontamination: One of the primary pathways for the spread of invasive mussels is through recreational watercraft. That’s why we operate boat inspection and decontamination stations at our locations. Trained staff inspect boats for signs of invasive mussels and, if necessary, provide decontamination services to ensure that boats are clean and mussel-free before they enter new bodies of water.

Partnerships and Collaboration: Preventing the spread of invasive mussels requires a coordinated effort involving government agencies, environmental organizations, recreational boaters, and other stakeholders. We work closely with partners at the local, state, and federal levels to develop and implement strategies for invasive mussel prevention, leveraging collective expertise and resources to maximize our impact.

Get Involved!

You can help protect our waterways from the threat of invasive mussels by getting involved with the “Don’t Move A Mussel” program:

Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the risks posed by invasive mussels and learn how you can prevent their spread.

Clean, Drain, Dry: Whenever you use a boat or other watercraft, remember to clean, drain, and dry it thoroughly to prevent the transport of invasive species.

Spread the Word: Share information about invasive mussels and the “Don’t Move A Mussel” program with your friends, family, and community to raise awareness and encourage others to take action.

Together, we can protect our waters from the threat of invasive mussels and preserve these valuable ecosystems for generations to come. Join us in the fight against invasive species – because when it comes to mussels, it’s best to leave them where they belong: in their native habitat.