Golden mussels, an invasive species found for the first time in North America last October, were discovered on a boat headed to Lake Tahoe. The detection led to strict inspection and decontamination protocols for motorized boats in the region to mitigate the risk of these mussels entering the lake. Experts warn that if introduced, golden mussels would severely impact the local ecosystem and water quality. The recent interception is seen as a positive sign that preventive measures are effectively reducing risks to Lake Tahoe's environment.
Officials found golden mussels for the first time in North America last October, in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
If the mussels were to reach Lake Tahoe, they would wreak havoc on the ecosystem and degrade water quality, and there's no getting them out, experts say.
It's really, really a big threat because of how fast it's also spreading in California.
The required inspections are doing the intended job to lower the risk of golden mussels reaching Lake Tahoe.
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