Live Zebra Mussel Confirmed In Utah Side Of Colorado River

Roughly a month after confirming zebra mussel DNA on the Utah side of the Colorado River, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources biologists collected a live adult zebra mussel below the Westwater Recreation Area in Utah, according to a news release on October 8th. The DWR, the Utah Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division and other partner agencies are responding to prevent the further spread of aquatic invasive species in the Colorado River. Zebra mussels are an emerging threat in the Upper Colorado River Basin, with an established infestation documented near Loma, Colorado in 2025. Beyond disrupting aquatic ecosystems, zebra mussels threaten infrastructure by clogging pipes and present safety hazards for recreational users. “Utah is dedicated to coordinating with our partners to contain and manage this aquatic invasive species threat,” shares DNR Law Enforcement Aquatic Invasive Species Statewide Operations Lt. Bruce Johnson. “We need everyone’s help to protect our waterways. If you’re getting out on the water — whether on a boat, kayak or paddleboard — please make it a habit to clean, drain and dry your gear every single time. It’s a simple step that makes a huge difference.” After the Colorado infestation, DWR began more extensive sampling for invasive mussels on the Utah side of the Colorado River in 2025. For the entire news release, visit wildlife.utah.gov/news.

Photo: nps.gov/lake/learn/quagga-mussel.htm