What EID is doing

The District is very concerned about the introduction of quagga and zebra mussels into California water bodies and is working to stop the mussels from establishing in reservoirs that provide our water supply, including Jenkinson Lake, Caples Lake, Silver Lake, Echo Lake, and Lake Aloha. The District is working closely with the California Department of Fish and Game, the lead state agency in the fight to control the spread of the mussels, to implement monitoring and outreach efforts.

Getting the word out—We have posters on kiosks in our recreation areas, including the Sly Park-Jenkinson Lake and Silver Lake boat launches, that describe the damage that mussels cause and explain how to inspect and clean your boats. We're also handing out brochures with the same information to visitors.

This web page, with information about the mussels and links to other sites for more information, includes much of the information we use for presentations to community groups. Articles in our customer newsletter and news releases also reach a broad audience.

We use two excellent films from the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission provided by the California Department of Fish and Game. One illustrates the environmental and economic impacts caused by the mussels including increased costs of water treatment. The other is a step-by-step guide to boat inspection and cleaning.

Both videos are available to watch online. Click on the links to the right.

Asking the right questions—At the entrance to Sly Park, our rangers question our boating visitors using a survey developed for this purpose. It is possible that boats may be turned away for inspection and cleaning before they can return and enter the park.

Monitoring at the lakes—We are placing monitoring devices in our lakes to aid in early detection of mussels. The devices will be checked on a regular basis. Early detection will help concentrate control efforts. It is also an opportunity to adjust operations and maintain a safe and reliable water supply.

We encourage all visitors to our recreation sites to learn more about this dangerous threat and take all precautions to make sure they aren't transporting the mussels into our lakes and streams.