Boaters, anglers and government staff who play or work in lakes, bays, rivers, creeks and watersheds are on the front lines in battling invasions of harmful aquatic species.

Like the infamous quagga and zebra mussels, many different species can out-compete (or eat) native species, creating havoc in our aquatic ecosystems. In large numbers, they can clog waterways, water pipes, and engine cooling systems. Dense mats of pondweeds can throw deeper waters into shade, causing oxygen levels to drop and fish to die. The risk of spreading invasive zebra mussels is so serious, that beautiful San Justo Reservoir in central California is closed to recreational use because it is infested with them.

What can you do to combat these invasions? If you work or play in lakes, creeks, rivers, or watersheds, you can be part of the action!

If you notice a suspected invasive species, it’s important to report it to agencies so they can take rapid action. In future blogs, we’ll talk about species to watch out for, how to report them, and how to inspect and decontaminate boats and field gear. These tips are taken from workshops that Cooperative Extension Advisors Leigh Johnson, Sabrina Drill and Darren Haver conducted for 181 public works, watersheds, and parks agency staff in southern California. They are based on scientific research and agency protocols.