Press Release
Columbus, Neb. – Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) is reminding lake-goers to help prevent the spread of invasive species and to prioritize safe boating practices as residents begin enjoying recreation on NPPD-managed waterways.
Invasive species like zebra mussels can easily spread from one pond or lake to another if boat owners don’t fully drain all water from their watercraft after each use. Once zebra mussels enter a waterway, they attach to any available surface and reproduce rapidly, often clogging pipes and infrastructure.
“As summer activities begin, boaters are reminded to always clean, drain, and dry their watercraft whenever they leave a lake or waterway,” said NPPD Water Resources Manager Kyle Liebig. “Invasive species can spread quickly, and if they were to enter an NPPD waterway, they could cause damage or operational issues at the electric generating facilities that rely on those waterways.”
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, which is owned and operated by NPPD, is fed from water out of Lake McConaughy and eventually flows to the South Platte River.
Safety should remain a top priority when enjoying recreational activities on NPPD’s water resources, and the public is urged to follow all regulations set 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 were to fall in the canal. To stay safe, anglers are encouraged to bring a companion or inform a friend or family member of when and where they’ll be fishing and always keep a life jacket nearby when close to the water.