Zebra Mussels

[SKMO]

Ok Guys –

I want all TR fishermen to take notice of this.

I’ll throw out some random thoughts I have after listening to Stephan McMurray, the MDC Fisheries Research Biologist as he gave a presentation to the MNRC (Missouri Natural Resources Conference) at Lake Ozark , (Tan-Tar-A) last week. Please forgive me if I have some facts somewhat skewed but I’ll do my best.

The economic impacts of Z-Mussel infestation are horrendous. From a fisherman’s standpoint they are almost insignificant, when compared to the problems they create with water utilities and power generation facilities and other infrastructure they are pretty minor. We are talking about hundred of millions of dollars to respond to the problems that zebra mussels create.

The main problem that Zebras present (and there are actually 2 species) to fishermen that they are complainng about is that they are razor sharp objects that cut fishing line. At least that is the initial feedback state agencies have gotten from fishermen, in their focused point of view, as far as their concern regarding the mussels. Not too concerned about overall biology, definitely most concerned about losing $4 baits.

The BIG question that we all have as fishermen is not so much getting our baits cut off on sharp mussels, but what is this, might this, will this, do to our fishery.

Here is the concern: Yes the mussels are filter feeders and might clarify the water (not like we have a water clarity problem) BUT newly hatched fry of bass, crappie and other game fish also feed on the same plankton that the mussels suck out of the fo0d chain, Plus is water clarity a problem on TR? No! What might be a problem will be the overall disruption of the food chain link of phytoplankton to fry to recruitment of gamefish.

I am sure you all have an opinion on this but the Biologists I have talked with are the first to admit they do not have a clue whether the Z will have a positive, negative, or neutral impact on Table Rock, when it gets here, And I do not think there is any question as to maybe/if, just when. I have not talked with anyone who has any degree of doubt that the Z will end up in TR. Repurcussions are a complete unknown.

The biologists I have talked with are totally dependant on those of us that take boats from one waterway to another to slow the spread of the things.

[Gary Lange]

Having experienced the Zebra Mussels that invaded the Great Lakes in that incidence they were a blessing for the fishery as they cleaned the water up and increased the weedbeds which provided cover for the Bass. The Smallmouth Bass Fishery in Lake Michigan waters around Chicago owe themselves to the Zebra Mussel. However, for the water intakes and everything that they attach themselves to it has been a real disaster. I hate to see them move into TR because it doesn't need the water any clearer nor does it need to have the power generation plants at the dams along the White River over run with them and the intakes clogged.

[J.E.]

SKMO again has hit the nail on the head. Most DNR's are unsure of the impact Z's will have however, they do have a historical record of other lakes as mentioned. TR in itself has over the years has changed due to the development around the lake and will continue to do so. As stewards of the lakes and waters we should all be vigilant of any changes and help/advise DNR of anything we experience.