Zebra Mussels Eradicated from Lake Waco in Central Texas
AUSTIN — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has determined that invasive zebra mussels have been successfully eradicated from Lake Waco in Central Texas, preventing property damage, protecting water supply infrastructure and avoiding harm to the aquatic ecosystem. The department emphasized the vital importance of continued help from boaters, marina operators and others to Clean, Drain and Dry boats before moving them and remain vigilant to stop the spread.
Fisheries biologists cautioned that eradication of the invasive mussels is extremely rare and was made possible only by very early detection and a multi-agency rapid response effort. Zebra mussels were discovered at Lake Waco in late 2014, but quick action at the time killed many of the mussels and helped prevent further spread, which eventually led to the eradication.