Invasive Mussels Found on Boat Entering Oregon from Arizona

First such interception in Oregon in 2026 highlights ongoing efforts to prevent spread of aquatic invasive species

Mar. 25, 2026 at 12:28am

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Staff with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife reported finding invasive quagga mussels on a motorboat entering the state earlier this month, marking the first such interception in 2026. The boat was being transported from Lake Havasu, Arizona and was decontaminated at the Ashland Boat Inspection Station, where all attached mussels were removed and disposed of.

Why it matters

Quagga mussels are an invasive freshwater species that can damage infrastructure, harm native ecosystems, and spread rapidly if introduced into new waterways. This incident highlights the ongoing efforts by Oregon officials to prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species through mandatory boat inspection programs.

The details

According to ODFW, the mussels were discovered on March 21 at the Ashland Boat Inspection Station. Oregon law requires all vehicles transporting boats to stop at open inspection stations for aquatic invasive species checks. Since the state's Watercraft Inspection Station program began in 2010, ODFW reports crews have inspected 246,748 watercraft, with 185 found carrying invasive freshwater mussels and 3,758 having other types of aquatic biofouling.

  • The mussels were discovered on March 21, 2026.
  • Oregon's Watercraft Inspection Station program began in 2010.

The players

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting Oregon's fish and wildlife resources, including efforts to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.

Lake Havasu

A reservoir located on the Colorado River, straddling the border between Arizona and California. It is a popular destination for boaters and water sports enthusiasts.

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What’s next

Officials encourage boaters to be aware of inspection station locations throughout Oregon and to comply with all inspection requirements to help prevent the spread of invasive species.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing threat of aquatic invasive species and the importance of proactive measures, such as mandatory boat inspections, to protect Oregon's waterways and ecosystems from the damaging impacts of invasive species like quagga mussels.