Zebra mussels infest Colorado waters as officials scramble to respond

In Colorado, state wildlife officials have recently reported the discovery of invasive zebra mussels in various locations, including a private body of water in Eagle County. This alarming finding follows intensified sampling efforts by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), which aims to control the spread of these destructive mollusks. The detection marks a critical point in the ongoing battle against zebra mussels, known for their ability to severely impact local ecosystems and infrastructure. Zebra mussels, native to Eurasia, have proliferated across the United States over the past few decades. Initially identified in the Great Lakes region, their presence has expanded to include states such as Colorado, Utah, and Texas. CPW experts noted zebra mussel veligers, which are their larval form, were first discovered in Colorado waters in 2008, highlighting the growing concern regarding their ecological impact. With these mussels filtering out essential algae from water bodies, they threaten native species and the biodiversity crucial to maintaining healthy ecosystems. The ramifications of a zebra mussel infestation extend beyond ecological concerns; they pose significant risks to infrastructure. Water treatment facilities and power plants incur substantial costs each year to mitigate the issues caused by these invasive species, particularly due to clogged water intakes. Colorado's water resources face compounding strains from increased demand due to hotter, drier summers, making effective management of zebra mussels even more urgent. The presence of these mussels not only complicates current infrastructure challenges but also adds a layer of urgency to the efforts needed for system upgrades across the state. In their commitment to address this ongoing crisis, CPW officials emphasize the importance of public awareness and responsible boating practices. By promoting strategies such as washing boats with warm, soapy water after use and advising against the transport of water from one body of water to another, they aim to curb the spread of zebra mussels. As Colorado strives to manage its water resources in a more sustainable manner, these recent discoveries serve as a reminder of the challenges posed by invasive species, reinforcing the need for community engagement and informed action.