NEWPORT — Vermont environmental officials have confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in the U.S. portion of Lake Memphremagog, marking the third water body in the state where the invasive species has been found.
After several seasons of monitoring, scientists from the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation and local partners found adult zebra mussels at multiple sites during surveys last summer.
“Aquatic invasive species like zebra mussels pose a serious threat to our environment, economy, and health,” said DEC Commissioner Jason Batchelder. “Strong local partnerships and robust monitoring programs are critical to stopping the spread of zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species.”
Zebra mussels, native to eastern Europe, can quickly establish large populations that outcompete native species for food and habitat. In Vermont, they were previously found only in Lake Champlain and Lake Bomoseen.
The invasive shellfish was first detected in Canadian waters of Lake Memphremagog in 2018, prompting increased monitoring along the international border. Arrowwood Environmental, LLC conducted surveys of docks, rocky shores and other hard surfaces where adult mussels typically attach.
“As the original population of zebra mussels spread from the northern region of Lake Memphremagog, we expect to see more in the southern region over time,” said Kimberly Jensen, DEC environmental scientist.
Officials urge boaters to follow the Clean, Drain, Dry initiative when moving between water bodies to prevent further spread of invasive species.
