NEBRASKA — The last week of May has been designated Nebraska Invasive Species Awareness Week, and NPPD wants to remind boaters to help prevent the spread of invasive species and practice safety on NPPD waterways.
Invasive species, such as zebra mussels, can easily be spread from one pond or lake to another if boat owners don’t ensure all water has been emptied out of their boat at each location it’s used. When zebra mussels get into a waterway, they stick to every surface available and begin multiplying at a rapid pace, often clogging intake structures to facilities.
Lake Maloney, the Sutherland Reservoir, and a portion of Lake Ogallala are all part of the Sutherland Canal system, which provides cooling water for Gerald Gentleman Station and powers the North Platte Hydro. The canal system is fed from water out of Lake McConaughey and eventually ends up in the South Platte River.
“As summer temperatures warm up the state, many people will be headed out for activities on their local lakes. NPPD’s waterways provide great opportunities for the public to enjoy those activities, and preventing the spread of invasive species will ensure they can be used both recreationally and to support our power plants for years to come,” said NPPD Water Resources Manager Kyle Liebig.
Safety should also be top of mind when using NPPD’s water resources for recreational purposes, and the public should follow all regulations established and enforced by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Fishing along the Sutherland Canal is a popular activity, but the steep banks and fast-moving waters can be extremely dangerous if anyone falls in the canal. As a safety precaution when fishing along these areas, it is encouraged to bring another person along or let a family or friend know when and where you are going to be and always have a life jacket when near the water.
