Invasive Species

An infestation of invasive mussels is an immediate threat to Lake Tahoe. The quagga and zebra mussels reproduce and colonize quickly and if introduced to Lake Tahoe would do irreparable damage to our ecosystem.

Boat inspectors have already discovered a number of invasive species on boats attempting to launch at Lake Tahoe. In May, 2010, a few days after roadside inspection sites opened, inspectors found New Zealand mud snails in a boat before it entered Tahoe.

These boats are quarantined and decontaminated. But quagga and zebra mussels are often extremely difficult to see. Please help us to protect Lake Tahoe by taking the following precautions:

If you are planning to launch a boat from shore and the boat has been in any other body of water, be sure to clean, drain, and dry it completely. Give it a thorough visual inspection. If you notice anything suspicious, take it to a public boat launch where it can be examined by a certified inspector.
Visit the Tahoe Resource Conservation District Web site for roadside inspection locations, hours and fee information.
All public boat launches and marinas are now staffed by a boat inspector who examines boats for evidence of mussels. Boat launches are only open when an inspector is present.

Inspection fees for motorized boats range from $20-$120, depending on the size of boat. All funds go directly to the inspection program. There is currently no charge to inspect a nonmotorized watercraft.

For more information on boat inspections, visit ProtectTahoe.org.

Learn more about aquatic invasive species at Tahoe through the Tahoe Resource Conservation District.

Emerald Bay gets relief from aquatic weeds

Boater fined $5,000 for evading Tahoe inspectors

Inspectors find New Zealand mudsnails on boat trying to enter Tahoe

Related photos

Quagga mussels multiply rapidly and can wreak havoc on an ecosystem.

Water milfoil is a common aquarium plant that was first introduced to the Tahoe Keys decades ago. It has now spread to dozens of locations throughout Tahoe by hitching a ride on boats.

Asian clams have infested over 200 acres of Lake Tahoe's bottom. The clams produce nutrient waste that feeds algae blooms. For the first time in Tahoe's history, swimmers are encountering wads of algae floating by their feet because of these clams. Researchers have found a successful control method -- rubber bottom barriers that suffocate the clams -- but this will only control the clams' spread. They are here to stay.