Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is calling on waterfowl hunters across the state to take extra precautions when traveling between lakes. In a Thursday release, the agency warned that microscopic zebra mussel larvae can hide in residual water on boats, decoys, waders and trailers, potentially spreading the invasive species to new waters.

Why the warning matters

Since the first zebra mussel infestation was discovered in Lake Texoma in 2009, the species has expanded dramatically. TPWD now reports zebra mussels in 40 Texas lakes across eight river basins, as well as downstream river stretches that receive water from those lakes. Once established, mussels are extremely difficult to eradicate, and they can cause costly damage to infrastructure, native ecosystems and recreational water use.

What hunters should do

TPWD’s guidance, based on recent studies, outlines practical steps for anglers and hunters:

• Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove plant fragments, mud and other debris from boats, trailers and gear before hosing anything down. A hose can push tiny fragments into hard‑to‑reach spaces where they may survive.
• Manually clear plants, mud and organisms from waders and decoys, then rinse them. A stiff brush can help scrub boot treads and other crevices.
• Drain all water from decoys. For older or cracked decoys that tend to hold water, consider drilling small drain holes to eliminate hidden pockets.

TPWD also notes that water can collect around a tow vehicle’s lights, license plate and between a boat’s hull and its bunks, providing additional hiding spots for larvae.

State support and rationale

“Though they can’t be seen with the naked eye, microscopic zebra mussel larvae can be transported unknowingly in residual water in the boat or even in water in decoys,” said Monica McGarrity, TPWD’s senior scientist for aquatic invasive species. The department emphasizes that proactive cleaning is the most effective tool to protect Texas’s valuable water resources.

The agency’s request aligns with broader state efforts to safeguard lakes and rivers from invasive threats. By encouraging hunters—who frequently move between bodies of water—to adopt these simple cleaning practices, TPWD hopes to curb further spread and preserve the health of Texas’s aquatic ecosystems for future generations.

How to get help

Hunters with questions or needing additional resources can contact TPWD’s invasive species hotline or visit the department’s website for detailed cleaning checklists and instructional videos.

Original reporting: DenisonWeekly.news — read the source article.