SACRAMENTO - The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has announced amendments that would expand existing regulations to cover all invasive mussel species, including golden mussels, to align with existing Fish and Game codes.

CDFW has opened a comment period that will end on Aug. 18, when it will host a virtual public hearing. ACWA will submit written comments and attend the hearing.

While similar to invasive quagga and zebra mussels, golden mussels pose more significant challenges because they can thrive in a wider range of water conditions. They significantly impact water systems because they attach to infrastructure in dense clusters, clogging water conveyance systems, pipelines, pumps, filters, hydropower facilities and agricultural operations.

Left unaddressed, their continued spread will put massive strain on California's water system, leading to costs which will ultimately be borne by ratepayers.

ACWA fact sheets, additional details and background are available in a July 6 ACWA Advisory. Member login is required.