It is now common to see dead and dying native mussels encrusted with up to 300 zebra mussels. Researchers are developing strategies to protect and preserve native mussel species from potential extinction. In an effort to expand public awareness of this problem, a full-time zebra mussel education coordinator has been hired and the Agency has expanded its citizen monitoring program. The Basin's Economy A clean, healthy Lake Champlain is vitally important to the region's economic future. Protection and enhancement of the lake and its surrounding natural and cultural resources are critical for the local economy as Lake Champlain becomes an increasingly popular recreational resource.
Several initiatives are underway to capitalize on the lake's popularity.
There are 16 state parks and 51 state boat launch sites on or near the Vermont shoreline of Lake Champlain, and another 12 municipal beaches. The Lake Champlain management plan calls for more public access along the lake, reflecting a widespread consensus of public opinion. One new access site opened in 1996, Alburg Dunes State Park. This 648-acre park contains nearly a mile of beach, the largest deer wintering yard in Grand Isle County, and extensive wetlands. The park is also home to globally endangered Champlain beachgrass and the rare beachpea, remnants from 10,000 years ago when seawater filled the Lake Champlain Basin.