The threat of zebra and quagga mussels to Wyoming’s waters is closer than ever before. Last week zebra mussels were discovered in Pactola Reservoir, located 13 miles west of Rapid City, South Dakota, in the Black Hills. The reservoir is only 27 miles from the Wyoming border and is a popular boating destination for Wyoming and South Dakota residents.
The westward expansion of invasive mussels is significant as Wyoming remains one of the few states yet to have the destructive species.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is concerned about the potential impacts the nearby zebra mussels could have on Wyoming, especially the inadvertent movement of invasive mussels into the state. It’s state law that any watercraft transported into Wyoming from March 1stthrough November 30th must undergo a mandatory inspection.
If boaters entering Wyoming do not encounter an open AIS check station on their route of travel, it is the boater’s responsibility to seek out an inspection.
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