Story perspectives

Zebra Mussels Infest Colorado River, Urging Public Action

9/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has classified the Colorado River as "infested" with zebra mussels, extending from the 32 Road bridge near Grand Junction to the Colorado-Utah border.
Zebra mussels, native to Eastern Europe, reproduce quickly and threaten water infrastructure.
CPW found multiple life stages in Highline Lake and Mack Mesa Lake.
Treatments with EarthTec QZ occurred in some areas, but the main river will not be treated to protect native fish.
CPW emphasizes the importance of public participation in monitoring and urges boaters and anglers to clean, drain, and dry their equipment.

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Story summary

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has classified the Colorado River as "infested" with zebra mussels, extending from the 32 Road bridge near Grand Junction to the Colorado-Utah border.
Zebra mussels, native to Eastern Europe, reproduce quickly and threaten water infrastructure.
CPW found multiple life stages in Highline Lake and Mack Mesa Lake.
Treatments with EarthTec QZ occurred in some areas, but the main river will not be treated to protect native fish.
CPW emphasizes the importance of public participation in monitoring and urges boaters and anglers to clean, drain, and dry their equipment.