Invasive Zebra Mussels Reproducing in Lewis and Clark Lake

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department says it has found zebra mussels attached to several boats moored in Lewis and Clark Lake.

The mussels were of multiple sizes, indicating that zebra mussels are reproducing in the reservoir.

Officials are telling boaters that they should expect to have their boats inspected when coming off the water in upcoming weeks.

The discovery of a single adult mussel in November 2014 followed by the sighting of larval quagga mussels at Angostura Reservoir in western South Dakota prompted officials to put new rules in place. Boaters are now required to remove all drain plugs from watercraft prior to leaving boat ramp areas.

GF&P assistant wildlife director Arden Petersen says the confirmed presence of the invasive mussels makes boater compliance even more critical.

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