Zebra mussels are a small, destructive invasive species that pose a danger to lake ecosystems, utilities and infrastructure. Boaters can unknowingly transport zebra mussels from lake to lake because the larvae are microscopic and easily transported in live wells or bilges without being seen.
Zebra mussels were discovered in Lake Travis in June 2017, Lake Austin in August 2017 and Lake LBJ in July 2019. Live zebra mussels have not been found in the other Highland Lakes – lakes Buchanan, Inks or Marble Falls.
Since 2013, zebra mussels also have been detected in several nearby lakes, including Canyon Lake, Lake Belton, Lake Waco and Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir southwest of Belton. The mussels also have infested lakes in North Texas.
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Once zebra mussels become established in a waterbody, little can be done to stop their spread. There is no known wide-scale eradication method for zebra mussels.
Protect the lakes you love
Boaters must clean, drain and dry their boats to keep zebra mussels from spreading. It’s the law – with fines up to $500 for a first offense.
State regulations require all boats operating on public freshwater anywhere in Texas to be drained after use to help prevent the spread of zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species. This includes the Highland Lakes and lakes Bastrop and Fayette.
