Berryessa Boaters Need to Inspect Vessels for Mussels

Jul 2, 2020 at 10:15am

Daily Republic

WINTERS — Boaters going to Lake Berryessa will have their vessels inspected for invasive mussel species.

The Solano County Water Agency runs the free Lake Berryessa Mussel Prevention Program in coordination with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, concessionaires, and state Department of Fish and Wildlife.

 It is an effort to keep the destructive zebra and quagga mussels from getting a foothold in the lake.

This Solano County Water Agency photo shows the invasive quagga mussels that officials are working to keep out of Lake Berryessa. (Courtesy photo)

But the agency said boat owners can do a lot of the work on their own by remembering to clean, drain, and dry every time and by taking these steps before and after leaving any recreation area:

 • Remove plants, animals and mud from gear,boat, trailer, and vehicle.
• Clean your gear.
• Drain bilge, ballast, wells, and buckets.
• Dry equipment including waders, line, toys, PFDs, and the hull of your boat.
• Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.
• Wait before launching into different fresh waters. The recommended drying period is 30 days.

If you believe your watercraft is at risk for harboring zebra or quagga mussels, or for more information, visit www.scwa2.com/lake-berryessa-mussel-prevention-program/