Aquatic Nuisance Species

Introducing non-native species into state waters can upset the balance of the ecosystem, thereby harming the environment. Aquatic nuisance species, such as zebra mussels, quagga mussels, milfoil, and hydrilla, most often spread between waterways by hitching a ride on vessels and trailers. When transplanted into new waters, these organisms proliferate, displacing native species and damaging the water resource.

In other states, quagga and zebra mussels have:

• Cost billions of dollars to control
• Jeopardized essential power and water infrastructures
• Destroyed recreation areas and equipment (including boats)
• Severely damaged ecosystems, displacing native and sport species

We don't want this to happen in Utah. Please keep your boat—and our waters—free of invasive mussels!

For more information on quagga and zebra mussels, visit the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website.