Quagga Mussels
Tiny fingernail-sized striped mussels that attach to nearly any hard surface.
Reproduce explosively, clog infrastructure, and strip nutrients from the water column.
STOP INVASIVE SPECIES
Invasive species are the single greatest threat to Blue Heart Springs. Learn to spot them and stop their spread.
WHY IT MATTERS
Once established, aquatic invaders are nearly impossible to remove. They clog waterways, crowd out native life, and can permanently change the clear water that makes Blue Heart Springs so special. Prevention is our most powerful tool.
Eurasian Milfoil
Feathery, fan-like underwater plant with 12 or more leaflet pairs per leaf.
Forms dense mats that choke the springs, hinder paddling, and shade out native plants.
Eurasian / Asian Clams
Small light-brown clams with distinct concentric ridges on the shell.
Filter feed aggressively, disrupt the food web, and can foul shorelines in huge numbers.
CLEAN. DRAIN. DRY.
The most effective way to protect the springs is to inspect and decontaminate your gear every single time.
Clean
Remove all mud, plants, and debris from your boat, paddles, and gear before leaving.
Drain
Drain all water from hulls, bilges, livewells, and equipment before transport.
Dry
Allow everything to dry completely, ideally for five days, before entering new waters.
Help us spread the word, not the species.
Your support funds inspection stations and education that keep these invaders out.