Protecting our reservoirs from an invasive mollusk

The golden mussel, an invasive mollusk from China and Southeast Asia, has recently been found in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, marking the first occurrence in North America. The presence of golden mussels does not pose a public health and safety risk. But similar to quagga and zebra mussels, they are a significant threat to California's native species, ecosystems, and water infrastructure by clogging water intakes and pipes.

These mussels travel between counties and states by attaching to watercraft and gear, which are then transported great distances by car, truck, or trailer. The adults and juvenile mussels will attach to any watercraft stored in contaminated water, and their microscopic young can survive the journey between waterbodies if there is standing water throughout the trip.

In response, Valley Water is partnering with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Department of Water Resources, and local stakeholders to assess the infestation and prevent its spread.

Actions include:

• Stepping up the watercraft inspection program, overseen by Santa Clara County Parks, to include golden mussels as a restricted species.
• Exploring exit inspections for boats at Calero and Coyote reservoirs with Santa Clara County Parks and other stakeholders.
• Expanding the invasive mussel monitoring program to cover golden mussels.
• Enhancing public education and outreach.

Valley Water will continue to monitor this evolving issue and work with regulatory agencies and local stakeholders to mitigate its impact on ecosystems.

Close-up of the invasive golden mussel. Photo by Marcela Uliano da Silva

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