While Nebraskans can expect to see many boaters on the lakes this summer, they also can expect to find Nebraska Game and Parks staff inspecting boats for invasive zebra mussels.
Zebra mussels are a small, D-shaped clam with alternating light and dark bands across the shell. They can be as small as a pencil eraser.
These non-native mussels can cause damage to Nebraska’s ecosystems and economy once established. They form dense colonies, filtering nutrients from the water that native species need to survive. The mussels also can pollute swimming beaches with their sharp shells and damage public and private infrastructure.