Latest news with #SanJoaquinDelta
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Tiny Invader Sparks Big Alarm in California Waterways
California is scrambling to contain an invasive species never before seen in North America: the golden mussel. First detected in October 2024 in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, the tiny mollusk, no larger than a paperclip, has now triggered a sweeping, statewide emergency response. State officials with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife unveiled a Golden Mussel Response Framework this week, calling the threat 'urgent' and laying out a long-term strategy to prevent further spread. The mussels have already been spotted in multiple waterways, including the San Luis Reservoir, and their ability to form dense colonies could wreak havoc on infrastructure, agriculture, and ecosystems. 'The discovery of golden mussels in California is a serious challenge that requires coordinated action and a long-term commitment,' said Charlton Bonham, director of the CDFW, in a recent news release.'These impacts necessitate ongoing, costly removal to maintain operational function,' said CDFW spokesperson Krysten Kellum, SF Gate reported. The species, native to East and Southeast Asia, clogs pipes, damages watercraft motors, and threatens the drinking water supply for two-thirds of California residents. In response, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife is offering $1 million in grants to support prevention efforts at boating facilities. New rules are also in place at several lakes and reservoirs, including mandatory 30-day quarantines and decontamination for trailered boats. The response includes expanded boat inspections, public education campaigns, and enhanced decontamination infrastructure. Officials are urging boaters to follow the 'Clean, Drain, Dry' protocol and report sightings of golden mussels immediately. 'Coordinated action will help safeguard critical water infrastructure,' said John Yarbrough, Deputy Director for the State Water Project. 'We can't afford to let this species spread unchecked.' To report sightings or learn more about the state's response, visit
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Officials declare 'urgent' threat as invasive species never before seen in North America is discovered: 'A serious challenge'
A tiny invasive species no bigger than a paper clip is causing concerns across Northern California's waterways. Golden mussels, never before seen in North America until October, have been discovered clinging to equipment in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, reported SFGate. These caramel-colored mollusks from China and Southeast Asia were likely introduced by international shipping vessels and have already spread to multiple California water bodies, including the San Luis Reservoir. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife released a plan to stop these little invaders, calling them an "urgent invasive species threat." "The discovery of golden mussels in California is a serious challenge that requires coordinated action and a long-term commitment," CDFW Director Charlton Bonham said in a news release, per SFGate. Like invasive plants that outcompete native vegetation, these aquatic invaders disrupt the natural balance of our ecosystems. They form dense colonies that can clog pipes, damage boat motors, and disrupt drinking water infrastructure that two-thirds of California residents depend on. The financial impact could be substantial. According to officials, removing these mussels requires "costly removal to maintain operational function" of water systems that serve millions of people. This situation mirrors the challenges homeowners face when dealing with invasive plants in their yards. Native landscaping is a solution with several benefits for your wallet and the planet. Native plants typically need less water than non-native options, helping you conserve water and lower your monthly bills. They also require less maintenance, saving you time and money on lawn care. You can choose from options such as buffalo grass, which needs minimal watering once established, or try a clover lawn that stays green with little effort. Xeriscaping with drought-resistant plants works well in drier climates, while native wildflower gardens attract essential pollinators. These pollinators help maintain our food supply, creating a healthier ecosystem that benefits everyone. Replacing even part of your lawn with natives can make a difference. Should we be actively working to kill invasive species? Absolutely It depends on the species I don't know No — leave nature alone Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. If you're a boater, you can help protect California's waterways by following the "clean, drain, dry" rule for your watercraft between launches. This simple step prevents hitchhiking mussels from spreading to new locations. If you spot any suspicious shells, you can report them by sending photos to the CDFW's invasive species program through its website or by calling its hotline at 866-440-9530. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
