Invasive Mussels Could Cost Idaho Millions

COEUR D'ALENE, IDAHO (AP) — Officials in northern Idaho say failing to prevent invasive zebra and quagga mussels from clogging northern Idaho waterways could end up costing the state $100 million. The Pacific Northwest Economic Region economic leadership forum meeting in Coeur d'Alene on Thursday predicts that an infestation of Idaho would damage fisheries, hydropower production, tourism and agriculture. Amy Ferriter of the Idaho Department of Agriculture says if the mussels enter Idaho there aren't any real control options. She says testing has determined mussels currently aren't in Inland Northwest Waters. The Coeur d'Alene Press reports that Idaho has 15 mandatory boat inspection stations at its borders.