Invasive golden mussels found in Santa Clara water treatment plant

"“This is no longer a theoretical concern or something happening elsewhere,” Brown said at the session. “The infestation is here.” Golden mussels were present in “key parts” of water infrastructure, according to Kern County officials, prompting a local emergency declaration over the invasive species."

"The invasive mussels can cause serious damage to both the environment and key infrastructure as they spread rapidly through the water. They can start to build up in pipes or on other hard surfaces, causing damage or a need for costly remediation. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife also warns that they can lead to the loss of native fish and increase the risk of damaging algal blooms happening."

"Kern County is the second to declare an emergency due to the invading bivalves. On April 28, the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors also declared a local emergency, reporting that golden mussels had already affected key infrastructure, including a $100 million floodgate."

"Earlier this month, water officials in Santa Clara County reported two golden mussels were found for the first time in their water treatment facilities. A juvenile mussel was found in the raw water intake at the Penitencia Water Treatment Plant in early April, according to Santa Clara Valley Water District spokesperson Matt Keller. In late April, an adult mussel was detected in a raw water strainer at the Santa Teresa Water Treatment Plant."

Golden mussels are spreading throughout California after first being detected in 2024. The invasive mollusks originate from Asia and can reproduce rapidly, producing up to 1 million offspring per year. Kern County declared a local emergency because golden mussels are present in key parts of water infrastructure. The mussels can build up on hard surfaces and inside pipes, causing damage and requiring costly remediation. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife warns they can contribute to loss of native fish and increase risks related to algal blooms. San Joaquin County also declared an emergency after golden mussels affected major infrastructure, including a $100 million floodgate. Santa Clara County reported golden mussels found in raw water intake and treatment facilities, including juvenile and adult detections.

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