With Fourth of July crowds expected at lakes across Texas, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is reminding boaters, paddlers and anglers to clean, drain and dry their boats and equipment to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, according to a July 2 news release.
“While we want everyone to have a great time, we also want to avoid giving harmful invasive species free rides to new lakes,” TPWD Inland Fisheries Regional Director Brian Van Zee said in the release. “The best way to prevent the spread of many aquatic invasive species and protect fishing and other recreation for everyone is to take just a few minutes to clean, drain and dry your boats and equipment every time you visit any lake.”
TPWD said Texas law prohibits transporting certain aquatic invasive species. Boaters must drain all water from boats and onboard receptacles, including bait buckets, before leaving or approaching a body of fresh water. They must also remove invasive plants from boats and trailers before leaving a lake.
According to the agency, zebra mussels and giant salvinia continue to spread in Texas. Zebra mussels have been documented in 40 Texas lakes across seven river basins. TPWD said they can damage boats and water infrastructure, alter lake ecosystems, affect native species and accumulate along shorelines. The agency said there are currently no effective methods to eradicate established populations.
TPWD Senior Scientist for Aquatic Invasive Species Monica McGarrity said zebra mussels can attach to boats, anchors and aquatic plants, while their microscopic larvae can be transported in residual water. She also said invasive quagga mussels and golden mussels, which have spread in California, could be introduced into Texas through contaminated boats.
The agency said giant salvinia is present in 29 East Texas lakes and numerous rivers, creeks and marshes between Houston and Beaumont. The floating aquatic fern can double its coverage within a week and form dense mats on the water’s surface.
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” TPWD Aquatic Habitat Enhancement Team Lead John Findeisen said in the release. He noted that a small fragment of an invasive plant can establish a new infestation.
TPWD recommends removing plants, mud and debris from boats and equipment, draining all water from boats and gear, and allowing equipment to dry completely for at least one week when possible. The agency said a high-pressure rinse is an alternative when extended drying is not practical. Owners of boats stored in the water at infested lakes are encouraged to contact TPWD at 512-389-4848 before moving them.