Invasive Species

In our watershed, we are primarily concerned with the following invasive species:

Zebra Mussels

Zebra mussels are a highly invasive freshwater species that can have a devastating impact on the environment and the economy. Zebra mussels spread from one body of water to the next by boaters and fishermen who don't properly clean, drain and dry their watercraft, minnow buckets, or other equipment. 

Aside from the nuisance and expense of removing and repairing the damage they cause to our pipelines and pumps, the real threat is the changes they can have on the ecosystem.

Zebra mussels filter the water by feeding on phytoplankton, zooplankton, and algae. This causes other native species to starve and increases water temperatures, which can harm other plants and fish. NTMWD conducts annual inspections and cleanings of our lakes so we can minimize the impact of zebra mussels on our water supply. 

Clean, Drain & Dry

Did you know that you can be fined up to $500 for not properly cleaning your boat after use? What was once a suggestion to prevent the spread of invasive zebra mussels is a state law.

First spotted in Michigan in 1988, zebra mussels have made their way into Texas lakes by hitching a ride on boats, watercraft, trailers and fishing gear. Always Clean, Drain and Dry your boat to protect our waterways.

Learn more about zebra mussels and the Clean, Drain and Dry campaign.

Boat Clean Drain Dry