Invasive species posing 'extreme threat' to Lake Tahoe

LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Authorities are on alert as invasive golden mussels were recently found on a boat just before it launched into Lake Tahoe.

Golden mussels are hazardous to the Lake Tahoe ecosystem, recreation and water quality, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) said. Invasive mussels can reproduce rapidly and could overwhelm and damage their environment.

Officials discovered the species on May 30, when a 46-foot boat was at an inspection station in Alpine Meadows, California , according to the TRPA.

"Golden mussels pose an extreme threat to Lake Tahoe and the waters of the region, and it is critical that everyone stay vigilant and always Clean, Drain, and Dry all watercraft and equipment when visiting new areas," said Dennis Zabaglo, aquatic invasive species program manager