CDFW News | CDFW Reminds Boaters of Invasive Mussels Concerns with Labor Day Weekend Approaching

CDFW Reminds Boaters of Invasive Mussels Concerns with Labor Day Weekend Approaching

• September 1, 2023

Introduction

As another California boating season winds down, it is crucial for boaters to remember the importance of cleaning, draining, and drying their watercraft to combat the spread of invasive quagga and zebra mussels. These actions align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting responsible consumption and protecting life below water.

About Quagga and Zebra Mussels

Quagga and zebra mussels are invasive freshwater mussels native to Europe and Asia. They reproduce rapidly, leading to alterations in water quality and the aquatic food web, ultimately impacting native and sport fish communities. These mussels spread from one waterbody to another by attaching to watercraft, equipment, and any other object that has been in an infested waterbody.

Invisible to the naked eye, microscopic juveniles are transported from infested waterbodies through water that is trapped in boat engines, ballasts, bilges, live-wells, and buckets. Currently, quagga mussels have infested 34 waters in Southern California, while zebra mussels have infested two waters in San Benito County, with 13 accessible to the public. The spread of these mussels and other aquatic invasive species can have detrimental effects on biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Preventing the Spread

To prevent the spread of quagga and zebra mussels, as well as other aquatic invasive species, individuals launching vessels at any waterbody are subject to watercraft inspections. It is essential for boaters to clean, drain, and dry their motorized and non-motorized boats, including personal watercraft and any equipment that comes into contact with the water, both before and after use. These actions contribute to SDG 14, which aims to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources.

Martha Volkoff, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Invasive Species Program Manager, emphasizes the significance of preventing the spread of mussels to protect future boating access. She acknowledges that the cool wet winter has provided excellent boating conditions this year, attracting many boaters over the Labor Day weekend.

Impacts of Quagga and Zebra Mussels

Quagga and zebra mussels can attach to and damage virtually any submerged surface. Their presence can:

• Ruin a boat engine by blocking the cooling system and causing overheating
• Jam a boat’s steering equipment, posing risks to occupants and others
• Require frequent scraping and repainting of boat hulls
• Colonize all underwater substrates such as boat ramps, docks, lines, and other surfaces, necessitating constant cleaning
• Impose significant expenses on owners

Recommended Steps for Boaters

CDFW advises boaters to take the following steps before leaving a waterbody to prevent the spread of invasive mussels:

1. CLEAN – inspect exposed surfaces and remove all plants and organisms
2. DRAIN – remove all water, including water contained in lower outboard units, live-wells, and bait buckets
3. DRY – allow the watercraft to thoroughly dry between launches, keeping it dry for at least five days in warm weather and up to 30 days in cool weather

These actions contribute to SDG 15, which focuses on protecting and restoring terrestrial ecosystems and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial resources.

Additional Information

For extensive information on invasive species, their harmful effects on ecosystems, and how California boaters can assist in the fight against invasive mussels, please visit the CDFW Quagga Mussels web page.

Travelers are also advised to be prepared for inspections at California Department of Food and Agriculture border protection stations. Inspections, conducted by CDFW, California State Parks, and the California Department of Food and Agriculture, include checking boats, personal watercraft, trailers, and all onboard items. Contaminated vessels and equipment may undergo decontamination, rejection, quarantine, or impoundment.

CDFW expresses gratitude to boaters for their continued cooperation in joining the fight against invasive quagga and zebra mussels.

Media Contacts:

Martha Volkoff, CDFW Invasive Species Program Manager, (916) 203-2255

Tim Daly, CDFW Communications, (916) 201-2958

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 14: Life Below Water – This goal focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources. The article discusses the impact of invasive mussels on water quality and the aquatic food web, which aligns with SDG 14’s objective of protecting marine ecosystems.
• SDG 15: Life on Land – This goal aims to protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. The article highlights how invasive mussels can damage submerged surfaces, including boat ramps and docks, which relates to SDG 15’s objective of preventing the degradation of land and freshwater ecosystems.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution – The article emphasizes the need for boaters to clean their watercraft to prevent the spread of invasive mussels, which can alter water quality.
• Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services – The article highlights the impact of invasive mussels on native and sport fish communities, indicating the need for the conservation and restoration of freshwater ecosystems.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Indicator for Target 14.1: Proportion of coastal and marine areas that are protected, managed, and conserved – The article mentions the need for watercraft inspections and cleaning to prevent the spread of invasive mussels, which can be considered as measures to protect and manage marine areas.
• Indicator for Target 15.1: Proportion of important sites for terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity that are covered by protected areas – The article highlights the infestation of waters by invasive mussels, indicating the need to protect and conserve important freshwater ecosystems.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Table

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: wildlife.ca.gov

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