In response to invasive mussel detections in two Montana waterways (Tiber and Canyon Ferry Reservoirs), the Montana Legislature established the Upper Columbia Conservation Commission (UC3) during the 2017 Legislative session.

The UC3 was created to enhance early detection and rapid response efforts

credit: ALERT Project Official Site

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regarding aquatic invasive species (AIS) threats through increased coordination with water management agencies within the Columbia River Basin in Montana, as well as provincial and state partners in the basin.

This project supports the efforts of the UC3 and the Department of Interior’s ‘Safeguarding the West from Invasive Species – Invasive Mussels Initiative.’ The mission of the UC3 is to protect the aquatic environment in Montana tributaries to the Columbia River from the threat of AIS in order to protect water resources, downstream interests, and the economic and ecological vitality of the region.

The UC3 is working with state and federal agencies, Tribes, local governments, conservation and industry partners, and other jurisdictions to enhance coordination, build relationships, and create the best ‘firewall’ possible from AIS introductions and spread to un-infested waters.

Raising awareness and disseminating information on the quagga mussel issue and the role of the UC3 is an important step in bridging some of the gaps and engaging the public and stakeholders in an issue that is now more critical than ever.