The PA Zebra and Quagga Monitoring Network and the Delaware Riverkeeper are sponsoring a zebra mussel and quagga mussel workshop on September 27 at Blue Marsh Lake in Leesport, Pa.

Zebra and quagga mussels are invasive species that are spreading into waterbodies nationwide. They grow so densely that they block pipelines, clog municipal water intakes, and cover the undersides of docks and boats.

These mussels are a nuisance to people and cause extreme harm to aquatic ecosystems, native clam and mussel populations, and the economy. Quagga mussels have spread to a diving quarry in the Bethlehem area, and zebra mussels are in the upper Susquehanna River in north central PA and in many waterways of New York.

Attendees will learn how to spot invasive mussels and help train visitors and recreational boaters how to properly clean equipment and gear to prevent their spread.

The workshop is free, but you will need to register by September 15. Act 48 credits are available to teachers attending.

For more information contact Faith Zerbe, Delaware Riverkeeper Network by calling 215-369-1188 ext 110 or sending email to: faith@delawareriverkeeper.org

8/15/2008