Zebra Mussels

With the recent discovery of zebra mussels in Grand Lake, every lake enthusiasts is called upon to help keep their contamination from rapidly spreading. By using the following preventive measures you can help slow the spread of zebra mussels in the Grand River System.

Recognizing the threat, preventing the spread

What to look for ...
Zebra mussels look like small clams, with a yellow or brown "D" shaped shell and dark and light stripes.

• Zebra mussels are attracted to moving water and prefer water that is shallow (6-20 feet) and rich in algae.

Prevention ...
Boats should not be left in the water for extended periods of time. With regular use, engine heat should keep mussels from colonizing inside most engines.

Always drain the bilge water, live wells and bait buckets.

• Inspect the boat and trailer immediately upon leaving the water.

• Scrape off any mussel found. Do not return them to the water.

• If possible, dry the boat and trailer for at least a week before entering another waterway. (If conditions are right, mussels can live for up to seven days on a boat hull outside the water.)

• Wash boat parts and accessories that contact the water using hot water (at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit), a ten percent solution of household chlorine bleach, or hot saltwater solution. Do not wash the boat at the ramp where these solutions could pollute the water. Finish with a clean water rinse.

Click here for more information on Zebra Mussels.

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The US Coast Guard Auxiliary in cooperation with the Grand River Dam Authority is posting the following signs around Grand Lake to help stop the spread of Zebra Mussels.