Zebra Mussel DNA Detected In Utah Portions Of Colorado River

Boaters are urged to do their part to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species after fragments of zebra mussel DNA were recently detected in the Colorado River in Utah for the first time. According to a DWR news release, zebra mussels are an emerging threat in the Upper Colorado River Basin. The detection of DNA does not confirm that live mussels are present but officials say any presence is a cause for serious alarm. All river users in Utah, including those with non-motorized watercraft, are required to complete Utah’s annual mussel-aware boater course. “As one of the primary users of the Colorado River, nonmotorized boaters are our first line of defense in helping reduce this risk of transporting this species from the Colorado River to other waters in the state,” shares DWR Sportfish Coordinator Trina Hedrick. “All boaters are encouraged to clean, drain, and dry all watercraft when moving between waterbodies to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive mussels. There is no time like right now to get serious about this threat.”  Visit stdofthesea.utah.gov to learn more about protecting Utah’s waters from this threat.