Help Halt Mussel Invasion
In October 2024, the California Department of Water Resources discovered non-native, highly-invasive golden mussels in the Bay-Delta near Stockton, California. Once established, golden mussels can spread rapidly, significantly damaging natural ecosystems, water infrastructure, agriculture, and economies. To combat this, the Shasta-Trinity National Forest is asking the public to clean, drain, and dry their boats for 30 days post out of town trip and 5 days if they are moving between local lakes. Local lakes include, but are not limited to Shasta, Whiskeytown, Trinity, and Lewiston Lakes.
Native to rivers and creeks of China and Southeast Asia, the golden mussel was likely introduced to California waters via international shipping. This species is known to have negative ecological and recreational impacts similar to those of quagga and zebra mussels.
While similar, golden mussels can thrive in a wider variety of ecological conditions, increasing the risk of establishment and spread if introduced.
Prevent Unintentionally Moving Invasive Mussels
- Clean, Drain and Dry all equipment watercraft before and after entering a waterbody.
- Clean off all aquatic material from your boat, trailer and equipment before leaving the boat ramp or parking lot.
- Drain ballast, bilge, live-wells, and anything containing water. Never drain back into the waterway.
- Dry equipment thoroughly before launching or entering into a body of water. Waiting periods vary, so check with the waterbody or local Forest Service office for specific inspection standards.
- Know Before You Go: contact the waterbody you plan to visit to find out about launching requirements.
- Purchase the Mussel Fee Sticker, which are required for all motorized watercraft operated in freshwater.
Additionally, the state of California has developed a comprehensive Golden Mussel Response Framework to address this urgent invasive species threat. The framework provides coordinated strategies to prevent further introduction and spread, as well as to contain and suppress infestations.
For the latest updates on the golden mussel, visit the CDFW Aquatic Invasive Species webpage.
To learn more about overall water safety, visit the Recreate Responsibly Coalition’s webpage.