Clear Lake fights to stay free of invasive mussels

Lake County officials are taking proactive measures to protect Clear Lake, California's largest natural freshwater lake, from the potential threat of invasive quagga and zebra mussels. Clear Lake, known for its rich fishing waters and over 120 miles of shoreline, attracts approximately 15,000 boaters annually. However, the introduction of these invasive species could have catastrophic effects on the lake's ecosystem and the local economy.

Monthly monitoring by Lake County's water resources staff has successfully kept Clear Lake free of these invasive mussels, which can devastate fish populations by consuming large amounts of green algae—an essential part of the food web. The presence of mussels could also lead to significant maintenance costs for drinking water systems, as they can clog pipes and require expensive removal efforts. Clear Lake provides drinking water to about 66% of the county's population, making the stakes particularly high.

To prevent the introduction of these invasive species, officials are urging boaters to follow three key steps: clean their boats thoroughly, drain all water from their vessels, and dry all equipment before visiting another water body. Additionally, all boats launching in Lake County must undergo a screening process to ensure they are free of mussels. This includes filling out a screener form and, if necessary, undergoing a free inspection by a certified watercraft inspector.

Boaters who pass the screening will receive a $20 sticker to indicate their compliance, which must be displayed on both sides of the boat. The county is also utilizing muscle-sniffing dogs at ramps for impromptu inspections to further safeguard the lake.

Lake County officials emphasize the importance of community involvement in these efforts, encouraging residents and visitors to help preserve Clear Lake for future generations. For more information, residents can contact the Lake County Water Resources department directly.