An unwanted species has found its way into Montana waterways and Idaho leaders say they need to get ready.
Right now the zebra mussels’ larvae in Montana aren't in waterways that flow into Idaho. But they could cause millions of dollars of damage to critical infrastructure, including hydroelectric plants. And once they're in, it’s hard getting them out.
"We obviously have to fit all or our program efforts into a specified budget but as we get data about what especially Montana has going on there as we get data about what our connection is we will review and enhance some of those operations," said Lloyd Knight of the Idaho Department of Agriculture.
To combat the threat, the state may change the hours and location of boat inspection areas and pay closer attention to watercraft coming from Montana. Those changes could all start as early as next spring.
