Conservation officials in Jackson County, Missouri are expressing concern after the discovery of Zebra mussels at Longview Lake for the first time. While other lakes in the Kansas City region have already been affected by the invasive species, this marks the first instance of Zebra mussels in Longview. These mussels can cause damage by clogging power plants, water intakes, boat motors, and hulls, in addition to harming native fish populations and disrupting aquatic environments. The economic impact of Zebra mussels in North America is projected to reach billions of dollars over the next decade.
The spread of Zebra mussels is often facilitated by transportation on boats, motors, trailers, docks, and equipment. They can survive out of water for several days in shaded areas and their larvae can persist in boat bilge water and other systems. Not native to North America, Zebra mussels were first found in Lake St. Clair near Detroit in 1988 and have since spread to various rivers and lakes in Missouri, including Longview Lake. They have also been discovered in nine other lakes in the state.
To prevent further spread, the Missouri Department of Conservation advises boaters to take precautions to ensure that their watercraft and equipment are free from Zebra mussels and other harmful pests. The infestation at Longview Lake underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting local waterways from invasive species.
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