Invasive Zebra Mussel Found In Utah Stretch Of Colorado River
A live zebra mussel has been found in the Utah portion of the Colorado River, raising concerns about the spread of an invasive species that can damage water infrastructure, threaten aquatic ecosystems and create problems for recreational users.
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources confirmed the discovery on October 7, following the collection of a live adult zebra mussel below the Westwater Recreation Area on September 22. The finding comes roughly a month after officials confirmed zebra mussel DNA in Utah waters of the Colorado River.
Infestation First Documented In Colorado
The discovery follows an established infestation documented near Loma, Colorado, in 2025. Since then, Utah wildlife biologists have increased monitoring efforts along the Colorado River from the state line to Moab.
During June and July, an environmental DNA sampler near the Potash Boat Ramp, about 14 river miles downstream from Moab, collected daily water samples for analysis by the U.S. Geological Survey. Four of the 22 samples tested positive for zebra mussel DNA before the live adult mussel was discovered in September.
Utah Division of Natural Resources law enforcement and partner agencies are working to better understand the extent of the infestation and prevent the species from spreading to other waterways.
“Utah is dedicated to coordinating with our partners to contain and manage this aquatic invasive species threat,” DNR Law Enforcement Aquatic Invasive Species Statewide Operations Lieutenant Bruce Johnson said in a press release. “We need everyone’s help to protect our waterways.”
Zebra mussels can clog water delivery pipes, damage boat engines and cost millions of dollars annually to control in water systems. They also consume plankton that fish depend on for food. Large numbers of dead mussels can create unpleasant odors, while their sharp shells can injure people walking along shorelines.
Officials say preventing the spread depends heavily on boaters and other river users. Anyone using watercraft, including kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and rafts, must clean, drain and dry their equipment when leaving a waterbody. That includes removing mud, debris and standing water from watercraft and trailers.
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Motorized boat owners must also complete Utah’s mandatory mussel-aware boater education course and pay the associated aquatic invasive species fee. Drain plugs must be removed before transporting a watercraft within Utah.
DWR Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator Trina Hedrick emphasized that nonmotorized boaters also play an important role in preventing the spread.
“All boaters are required to clean, drain and dry all watercraft when moving between waterbodies to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive mussels,” Hedrick said.
More information about preventing aquatic invasive species is available at STD of the Sea.
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