Following the discovery of invasive zebra mussels in the Colorado River last year, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is working hard to prevent further contamination across the state.  Part of that is an ongoing effort in boat inspections to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species including both zebra and quagga mussels. In 2025, CPW conducted more than 438,000 such inspections at various bodies of water. Officials say early detection of the invasive species was made possible by increased staffing and upgraded lab facilities, but the discovery on the Western Slope still set off alarm bells because once adults are present in a reproductive state, they have the ability to rapidly multiply and clog infrastructure. 

Other Colorado River news:

• KSL (Salt Lake City, Utah): Temporary ramp seeks to keep popular Utah recreation area as Lake Powell drops
• Native American Rights Fund: Video: Prof. Robison on the Colorado River and tribal water rights