For the second time in just over one year, Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) staff responded to a citizen inquiry about invasive zebra mussels found attached to a vessel prior to its launch into Lake Lanier.   

“We are grateful for the keen eye of this particular boat owner, and we extend thanks to him for being observant and contacting WRD in a timely manner,” said Jim Page, WRD Aquatic Nuisance Species Program Manager. “Zebra mussels pose a significant ecological and economic risk to our state so we encourage boaters to follow this lead and thoroughly inspect your boat, trailer, and gear for any unwanted ‘hitchhikers’ prior to use in any Georgia waters, and always contact your local WRD office should you have questions.”

Georgia officials were alerted after a boat owner observed a mysterious mussel attached to the motor of his recently purchased vessel. The boat owner contacted the local WRD office and through further inspection, found out the mystery ‘hitchhikers” were zebra mussels. Thankfully, the discovery was made prior to the vessel being launched into Lake Lanier. Though the vessel has since been thoroughly decontaminated, it serves as a reminder to all boaters to thoroughly inspect their vessels PRIOR to launching into any of Georgia’s waters.