Invasive zebra mussels detected in Utah's Colorado River for first time

The finding represents a significant escalation in the spread of zebra mussels across western North America's river systems. Genetic material from the invasive mollusks was identified in Utah's portion of the Colorado River, following a documented infestation near Loma, Colorado, in 2025.

Zebra mussels pose considerable risks to local ecosystems and critical water infrastructure. The species clogs pipes, damages irrigation systems, and disrupts native aquatic environments by filtering large quantities of water and outcompeting local organisms for nutrients.

Wildlife officials have issued urgent guidance to recreational water users to help contain the spread. Boaters, anglers, and others who use affected waterways are being urged to thoroughly clean, drain, and dry all equipment and vessels before moving between water bodies. These preventive measures are considered essential to slow the mussel's northward and westward expansion.

The detection underscores growing challenges facing water management agencies across the arid western United States, where invasive species threaten both natural systems and the infrastructure that supports millions of residents and agricultural operations.