July 29, 2022 |
As Bigfoot 99 reported last week, Wyoming Game and Fish stepped up inspection of watercraft in northeast Wyoming were discovered less than 30 miles from the state border in South Dakota.
To prevent the harmful zebra mussels found in the Pactola Reservoir near Rapid City from moving any closer to the Cowboy State, the LAK Reservoir near Newcastle will close to all watercraft on Monday.
The reservoir will remain open to anglers for shore and ice fishing for now.
Public access to the privately-owned LAK Reservoir for fishing and boating is provided through an access agreement between True Ranches and Game and Fish. The reservoir is approximately 122 surface acres fed by Stockade Beaver Creek. It is a popular fishery offering anglers the opportunity to catch walleye, smallmouth bass, tiger musky and other warm water species. The reservoir also serves as the irrigation reservoir for True Ranches properties.
The 62-mile road trip between the LAK and Pactola reservoirs makes it a likely way for mussels to hitch a ride into Wyoming, one of the few states yet to be hit with the destructive species.
All it takes for the destructive species to survive is little standing water inside a watercraft. Adult mussels spread easily as they can attach to hard surfaces and live up to 30 days out of the water. They adhere to hard surfaces. In the Midwest they have destroyed boat engines, fouled beaches, and caused damage to boat ramps and docks. Zebra mussel fecal material may also contribute to taste and odor problems in drinking water sources.
The discovery of the invasive species in South Dakota is especially concerning as many boaters frequent waters on both sides of the state line.
Officials urge boaters to take the extra time to practice good Clean, Drain, Dry protocols and to stop at check stations.
Pictured above: File photo of the LAK Reservoir. Photo courtesy of WGFD.
