Invasive Mussels in the West: Preventing the Spread of Golden Mussels

Aquatic invasive species, particularly invasive mussels, have been detrimental to U.S. water infrastructure, power generation, agriculture, ecosystems, and economy. Western states’ invasive mussel policy has mainly focused on preventing the spread of invasive quagga and zebra mussels, which were unintentionally introduced into the Great Lakes in the mid-1980s and have since spread throughout most river systems in the United States.

In recent years, a new invasive species threat has appeared: golden mussels. Possessing the same destructive abilities as quagga and zebra mussels, golden mussels were first detected at California’s Port of Stockton in October 2024. In less than two years, golden mussels have spread throughout many of state’s water systems, reaching as far south as San Diego.

Join CSG West’s Agriculture and Water Committee for a virtual Legislative Exchange featuring aquatic invasive species experts from across the West. The discussion will explore how legislators can cooperate to prevent further spread and eradicate existing golden mussel outbreaks.

Who should attend: Western state legislators and legislative staff.

Please register to reserve your space and receive programming updates.

We encourage you to submit your questions ahead of time for a more valuable experience!