There is nothing better than spending a day out on Lake Nighthorse surrounded by mountain views and shimmering waters. By being aware and preventing invasive species you help protect our gorgeous lake and preserve it for future generations.
It’s important to maintain the ecosystem of Lake Nighthorse by understanding what invasive aquatic species to look for, checking over your equipment for them, and reporting species activity when you see it. Dealing with invasive species can be costly for the community, they can destroy animal populations and native plants.
Protect lake nighthorse by checking for invasive aquatic species before entering.
Understand Invasive Aquatic Species
Know the Threats
Stock Photo of Zebra Mussels
Understanding invasive species in Durango's Lake Nighthorse is important for several reasons. Invasive species can harm the local ecosystem by outcompeting native plants and animals, which can lead to a loss of biodiversity. This not only affects the wildlife but also the overall health of the lake. For instance, invasive species can alter the water quality, making it less suitable for fishing, swimming, and other recreational activities that locals and visitors enjoy.
The species that might be harboring a ride on your vessel are quagga mussels, zebra mussels, New Zealand Mudsnails, and Eurasian Watermilfoil. If you would like to learn more about Colorado's invasive aquatic species or want more information. Colorado Parks and Wildlife has a great brochure on aquatic invasive species prevention and identification. By keeping an eye on these species, we can help preserve the lake’s natural beauty and ensure it remains a vibrant, thriving environment for everyone.
Clean, Drain, and Dry Your Equipment
Following these three steps clean, drain, and dry ensure a well-cleaned boat. Proper cleaning techniques are essential to prevent the spread of invasive species.
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Clean: Before leaving a waterbody, clean all equipment, boats, and gear by removing visible mud, plants, and organisms. Rinse everything thoroughly with high-pressure and hot water up to 140 degrees since many invasive species cannot survive high temperatures.
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Drain: Look for areas that can trap water, like bilges and live wells. Drain these and the boat completely. Avoid transferring water between different water bodies.
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Dry: Allow all gear to dry completely for at least five days before using it in another water body.
Following these Steps to Prevent Invasive Aquatic Species
Inspect Your Watercraft
Before you can enter the water at Lake Nighthorse you may be subject to a watercraft inspection. Any boat with an electric motor or trailer must be inspected. Taking a few moments to thoroughly check your boat and gear for invasive species is a simple way to keep our lakes healthy.
After a great day on the water, give your boat, trailer, and gear a quick once-over. Check hidden spots like propellers, anchor lines, and the underside of your boat for any hitchhiking plants, animals, or mud. Remove any debris you find and toss it in the trash.
Give everything a good rinse with hot, high-pressure water, and let it dry out completely for a few days before your next adventure. These simple steps can help keep our waterways clean and enjoyable for everyone!
Dispose of Bait Properly
Properly disposing of bait is super important for keeping our watershed healthy and free of invasive species. When you're finished fishing, don’t just toss leftover bait into the water. Even small critters in live bait can become big problems by spreading invasive species that outcompete native fish and disrupt the ecosystem. Instead, throw your unused bait in the trash or use designated bait disposal stations.
This small step can make a big difference in protecting our lakes and rivers. By being mindful about how we dispose of bait, we can all help preserve Lake Nighthorse for future generations to enjoy.
Report Any Sightings
Reporting invasive species is vital for protecting our ecosystems and biodiversity. When you spot an invasive species, report it to rangers at Lake Nighthorse or Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Provide details like the species’ appearance, location, and how many you observed.
Early detection helps prevent these invaders from spreading and causing further harm to native plants and animals. Reporting also allows experts to implement control measures and manage the situation more effectively. Reporting any sightings of invasive species is a preventative measure that can help protect our lakes.
Conclusion
Keep Lake Nighthorse Pristine
Following the clean, drain, dry steps and other precautions is an important part of boating safety in Durango. When you are out on Lake Nighthorse next time ensure that you and others in your party are wearing a personal flotation device (PFD).
Help protect yours and others lives and those in the Lake Nighthorse ecosystem.
Preventing invasive aquatic species in Lake Nighthorse cares for the future of the lake. Use these protective actions the next time you are recreating in Lake Nighthorse or any other lake.
