Zebra Mussels on the Western Slope

Updated about 5 hours ago

Maddie Baker will present on the status of aquatic invasive species in the Eagle and Colorado River systems

Maddie Baker from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife aquatic invasive species task force will present on the status of aquatic invasive species in the Eagle and Colorado River systems and what we can do to stop the spread.

Chapters

Welcome and Introduction (00:00:19)
Pete Wadden welcomes attendees to the meeting, introduces himself as the Town Watershed Specialist, and gives an overview of the event format.

Pete Wadden, the Town Watershed Specialist, welcomes everyone to the meeting. He introduces himself and explains that the event is part of a monthly series called 'Lunch with the Locals', sponsored by Eagle River Water and Sanitation District and High Five Access Media. He encourages attendees to minimize waste by using compostable materials provided.
Presentation by Maddie Baker from Colorado Parks and Wildlife (00:02:03)
Maddie Baker discusses Colorado Parks and Wildlife's efforts to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, focusing on zebra mussels and their impact.

Maddie Baker, an invasive species specialist with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, presents on the Aquatic Nuisance Species Program. She explains the challenges of controlling zebra mussels, their lifecycle, and how they spread. Baker details watercraft inspection and decontamination procedures, as well as early detection and rapid response strategies aimed at preventing the introduction of invasive species like zebra mussels and New Zealand mud snails.
Current Situation and Challenges with Zebra Mussels (00:11:00)
Discussion on the challenges posed by zebra mussels in Colorado, including their spread and impact on water infrastructure and local ecosystems.

The presentation continues with a focus on the spread of zebra mussels in Colorado, highlighting the first discovery of adult zebra mussels in Highline Lake and subsequent findings in other bodies of water. The impact on irrigation, infrastructure, and the environment is discussed, emphasizing the economic and ecological challenges posed by these invasive species. The efforts to contain and control their spread are detailed, including sampling and containment strategies.
Mitigation Efforts and Future Plans (00:24:00)
Overview of mitigation strategies, including chemical treatment and drainage of infested waters, and plans for future prevention efforts.

Maddie Baker outlines the mitigation efforts undertaken, such as the application of earth tech QZ, an EPA-registered molluscicide, and the decision to drain Highline Lake to eradicate mussels. She discusses the importance of cooperation with landowners and the challenges of long-term monitoring and prevention. Future plans include increased sampling, collaboration with private landowners, and continued public education to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Conclusion and Call to Action (00:30:51)
Closing remarks emphasizing the importance of preventing the spread of invasive species and a call to action for community involvement.

In her closing remarks, Maddie Baker stresses the importance of preventing the spread of invasive species like zebra mussels to protect Colorado's waterways and infrastructure. She calls on the community to get involved, adhere to guidelines for watercraft inspection and decontamination, and report any sightings of invasive species. The session ends with a reminder of the economic and environmental stakes and the need for collective action.
Discussion on Water Infrastructure Challenges (00:30:55)
Discussion on the challenges of water infrastructure in Colorado, focusing on funding and taxpayer impact.

The speaker addresses the current challenges in Colorado's water infrastructure, emphasizing the lack of sufficient funds to replace aging pipes. This issue affects taxpayers and water users statewide.
Public Awareness on Water Conservation (00:31:15)
Public urged to help conserve water by adopting clean, drain, and dry practices to prevent environmental impact.

The audience is encouraged to actively participate in water conservation efforts by following the 'clean, drain, and dry' method to prevent the spread of invasive species. Attendees are advised to clean equipment thoroughly to avoid transporting mud, plants, and water between bodies of water.
Implementation of Cleaning Stations (00:33:04)
Introduction of cleaning stations to help public prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species.

Efforts to implement cleaning stations equipped with solar panels, vacuums, and air compressors are underway. These stations are designed to aid the public in cleaning their equipment, preventing the spread of invasive species without using water to rinse contaminants back into the river.
Outreach and Education Programs (00:33:54)
Expansion of outreach programs to educate the public about aquatic nuisance species and prevention methods.

The outreach program is being expanded with new signage and educational materials targeting different user groups. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the impact of aquatic nuisance species on local industries such as beer, wine, and agriculture.
Questions and Answers Session (00:35:56)
Audience questions addressed regarding invasive species and water conservation methods.

The session includes questions from the audience about invasive species, vectors of transmission, and effective cleaning methods. Topics discussed include the role of recreational boats in spreading species, the effectiveness of cleaning methods, and the potential use of natural predators to control invasive populations.