The Zebra Mussel Task Force (ZMTF) was created by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) following the discovery of zebra mussels in Laurel Lake in western Massachusetts. The purpose of the ZMTF is to develop a set of recommendations for reducing zebra mussel infestations in water bodies at high risk for infestation, including facilitating and managing boating access to lakes and ponds.

The ZMTF is comprised of ten members, including representatives of DCR Lakes and Ponds Program, DFG Office of Fishing and Boating Access, EEA, MA Environmental Police, sportsmen's, boating, and lakes associations, and a freshwater wetlands scientist. The Massachusetts Office of Dispute Resolution and Public Collaboration (MODR) at the University of Massachusetts, Boston, was engaged to interview stakeholders in preparation of meetings and to help facilitate the discussions and the public forum.

The ZMTF has developed a set of recommendations which will be circulated to the broader public by March 31, 2010. A public information session will be held on Wednesday, April 7, 2010 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the Crosby Elementary School in Pittsfield, MA at which the recommendations will be presented by the ZMTF. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A period.

Zebra Mussel Task Force Final Recommendations pdf format of Zebra_Mussel_Task_Force_Recommendations.pdf

Meeting 1: December 2, 2009

Meeting 2: December 22, 2009

Meeting 3: January 20, 2010

Meeting 4: March 5, 2010

DFG Zebra Mussel species information: http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/nhesp/conservation/invasives/invasive_zebra_mussel_home.htm

DCR Lakes and Ponds Program: Zebra Mussel http://www.mass.gov/dcr/watersupply/lakepond/hot_topic.htm

MODR Legal Framework

Questions or comments on the ZMTF? Email ZMTF@umb.edu