early detection monitoring program

To protect Idaho from invasive species, it is important to stop new outbreaks before they start. By the time an invader is readily noticeable and begins to cause damage, it is often too late. It can be challenging and expensive to remove an established invader. However, by detecting new outbreaks early and acting quickly to control them, we have the opportunity to avoid many of the environmental and economic losses caused by invasive species.

Statewide, agency staff and partners actively monitor Idaho waterways for various listed aquatic invasive species which involves survey and sample collection for invasive plants, snails, clams, mussels, crayfish, etc. Tools utilized in these efforts include Veliger Nets, Ponar Dredges, Substrate Samplers, Visual/Drawdown Inspections (in and out of water).

>>ISDA SOP FOR WATERBODY SURVEYS<<

Veliger Sampling: Veliger refers to the larval form of certain mollusks which include quagga and zebra mussels. Sampling occurs between approximately May and October when water temperatures maintain a range of 12C-24C. It is only documented within this range that invasive mussel are able to reproduce. During the colder winter months, adult mussels will go dormant and this kind of sampling will stop.

Ponar Dredges are sent down into the water from survey vessels and off of docks to grab a representative sample from the substrate to bring up to the surface for further inspection.

Visual and Drawdown Surveys occur opportunistically while conducting aquatic noxious weed surveys and as water levels fluctuate in our reservoirs. Staff make periodic visits throughout the winter to these areas in search of any evidence of adult mussels.

Assistance with early detection monitoring

A number of partners assist with early detection monitoring including: the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Shoshone Piute Tribe, Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Idaho Power Company, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Forest Service, lake associations as well as various canal companies and irrigation districts around the state.