Zebra Mussels entered the United States in the early 1980s. It is believed that ships traveling from Europe to the United States carried larval forms of the mussels in their ballast water. Be knowledgeable about your lake s conditions. Know which lakes are infested with non-native aquatic organisms. Become familiar with invasive species.
Examine boat hulls, motors, trailers, fishing and diving gear for tag-along weeds and mussels.
Clean and wash boats, motors, and trailers after every use while still at the lake or when you get home. Discard attached weeds and Zebra Mussels away from surface waters. Contact the NH Department of Environmental Services Biology Bureau. When you get home, make sure that you thoroughly inspect and clean your boat and discard away from water any weeds or suspicious organisms. The key to eliminating the problems of nuisance species is to prevent their spread.