Invasive Zebra and Quagga Mussels
Why should we care?
An introduction of invasive mussels in the Flathead would have huge local recreation and economic impacts, such as
Significant reductions in local tourism, recreation, and lakeside property values.
Beaches covered with sharp shells would make walking and playing difficult for people and animals. Our fresh air would turn foul smelling with mussels decomposing along the shoreline.
Increased costs for cleaning and maintaining water system pipes used in domestic, municipal, agricultural, and hydroelectric facilities.
Increases in our monthly electricity and water bills due to substantially more annual maintenance costs for utility companies.
Read the study on the economic value of Flathead Lake and the potential impacts of a mussel infestation: The Economic Value of Flathead Lake
Devastating environmental changes
Zebra and quagga mussels are voracious filter feeders, removing substantial amounts of phytoplankton from the base of the food web.
As a result, we could see dramatic changes in the Flathead Watershed ecosystem, possibly irreversible, including crashing fish populations, losing native flora and fauna, declining water quality, and increasing frequency of toxic algal blooms.
What can we do?
Talk to your legislators: Support funding for more protection of the Flathead watershed and all Montana waters, including additional boat inspections stations and requirements.
Participate in the Flathead Lake Mussel Walk this spring. Inspect your favorite shoreline for invasive mussels, and share your results with us. Early detection is critical in preventing an invasion.
Remind your friends and guests to clean, drain, and dry their boats every time they move it AND to happily stop at all watercraft inspection stations.
Join our community. The Flathead Lakers keeps our members up to date on current issues and legislation regarding invasive species, and clean water generally. We notify our members and community when we need their voice or action on an important issue. Look for Call to Actions on our new and announcements page, email communications, and our Facebook page.
U.S Fish & Wildlife estimated that if zebra or quagga mussels invade the Columbia River, they could cost hydroelectric facilities alone up to $250-300 million annually (www.fws.gov/invasives).
The Flathead Watershed is the headwaters of the Columbia River.
Additional AIS resources
Protect our Montana Waters: State programs, regulations, and information.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks: Aquatic Invasive Species
Flathead Lake Biological Station: AIS/Invasive Mussels