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Boat covered in invasive mussel species stopped before entering California lake
New York Post • • nation
Key Points:
- A boat covered in invasive golden mussels was intercepted at a Folsom Lake decontamination site, preventing the species from entering the popular California reservoir.
- The vessel had arrived from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and was undergoing mandatory inspection and decontamination before launching into Folsom Lake, which attracts over 2 million visitors annually.
- Golden mussels, known for accumulating pollutants and damaging water infrastructure, are difficult to eradicate once established, raising concerns about environmental and agricultural impacts.
- This incident marks the first time Mello Marine has encountered golden mussels during approximately 6,000 decontaminations since 2025, highlighting the ongoing risk of invasive species spread.
- The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has been notified, and the boat will be fully decontaminated and quarantined for 30 days before being allowed back in waterways.
