Why This Matters:

350,000+ People Depend on This Water

Every family, student, business, and emergency facility in the Mobile area relies on Converse Reservoir.

Invasive Species Are Here — and Worse Could Be Coming

In 2021, Giant Salvinia spread rapidly across the reservoir. It grows exponentially and can choke water intakes, require chemical treatment, and threaten supply reliability.

Experts determined:

The species was likely brought in on boats from other waterways.
It cannot be fully eradicated once established.
Preventing introduction is less costly and safer than chemical treatment and cleanup.

Scientists and federal assessments also warn that zebra mussels, which are already found in nearby Alabama waters, could cause catastrophic damage and cost MAWSS customers millions in treatment costs if introduced.

Scientific and Federal Homeland Security Guidance: Limit Boat Access

To protect the water, a leading environmental scientist, Dr. Barry Vittor, recommended the following:

"After careful consideration of likely levels of prevention versus risk to the water supply, MAWSS has wisely opted to close the Lake to any recreational use that has the potential for bringing Zebra Mussels or any other aquatic invasive species into the Lake."

In addition, a federal security review from the US Department of Homeland Security advised:

Keep the lake closed to outside boats to prevent introduction of invasive species and protect critical water infrastructure.

The MAWSS Plan – Safe Water and Controlled Recreation

MAWSS is planning a new recreational model that protects drinking water while offering safe public enjoyment.