Can you visualize a warm day near our beautiful Flathead waters? Even though there’s snow on the ground, it’s time to be bold about preserving and protecting our beautiful lake and the enormous economic benefits it provides.

Last week I audited an Aquatic Invasive Species Summit presented by Fish, Wildlife and Parks. The threat from invasive mussels and plant species is serious. Beaches, irrigation, water quality and fisheries have been damaged in waters near Montana.

The zebra mussel has the dubious distinction of “Priority 1” which means it’s not yet known to be present in Montana, but “has a high potential to invade.” According to FWP, “there are limited or no known management strategies.”

These species have caused profound ecological changes in freshwater ecosystems,” not to mention spoiling beaches and structures. Municipal and industrial water facilities may require millions of dollars in repairs. You can imagine what a fiscal disaster this would be for Montana.

Where will the invasion likely come from? Maps of U.S. infestations look like a paisley pattern, spreading from the Great Lakes and the west coast. Nearly imperceptible larvae hitchhike on boat hulls, motors, trailers and in bilge water.

Last summer a check station was set up at the scenic pull-out south of Ronan. I spoke with some of the personnel there who at peak times were overwhelmed. Boarding a boat to inspect bilge water – an inconvenience if not an intrusion – isn’t an envious job. The boaters were mostly cooperative, and so far the best defense is the “Inspect, Clean, Dry” campaign, but there was frustration that potential infestations could slip through.

The consensus is that we can do better. The agency says “the program is in its youth,” and is seeking ways to be more effective. Last session we appropriated $898,000 for two years’ funding. Prevention is vital. More effective check stations, outreach and other strategies were discussed at the Summit to prevent an irreversible infestation.

I prefer education to regulation, and will promote sensible, effective protection for our tremendous asset before it’s too late.

I value your input. Contact me anytime at 406-883-4677, or carminemowbray@gmail.com.