Aquatic Invasive Species

An Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) is any non-native plant, animal, or pathogen that can harm our economy, environment and human, animal, or plant health. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, along with state, federal and private partners, are working diligently to stop the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species.

Of particular concern is invasion of our lakes and water by zebra and quagga mussels. Spread of these mussels not only pose a risk to our native aquatic wildlife, but also to all water-based recreation including boating and fishing, as well as to all surface water delivery systems including municipal water supplies, hydroelectric power generation and irrigation for farming and agriculture.

Currently, there is no known method for successful irradiation of these mussels, creating enormous management costs which will be passed along to New Mexicans. In a water-dry state such as ours, infestations by zebra or quagga mussels will affect everyone! This is why in New Mexico it is unlawful to knowingly transport AIS into and within New Mexico’s borders.

The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, along with New Mexico State Parks, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the US Army Cops of Engineers, the US Bureau of Reclamation, along with other stakeholders are asking boaters to CLEAN, DRAIN and DRY their boats to stop the spread of harmful invasive mussels. Properly cleaning and drying your boat will also help keep it in good condition and allow all of us to continue to enjoy our favorite lakes for years to come. Boaters should be prepared for inspections throughout the state designed to help ensure that New Mexico’s waters remain mussel-free!