Salem, Oregon – Oregon fish and wildlife officials used an Invasive Species Week post Wednesday to warn boaters about golden mussels, an invasive species they say poses a growing risk to waterways and infrastructure.
According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, golden mussels are native to China and other Asian countries but were accidentally introduced to South America and have now been detected in California. The agency said the species was first detected in October 2024 in California’s Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta.
In its post, ODFW said golden mussels are similar in appearance to quagga and zebra mussels, but can handle a wider variety of water temperatures and salinity fluctuations. The agency said the mussels can attach to soft substrates and even aquatic plants, as well as manmade and natural objects.
ODFW warned that, like zebra and quagga mussels, golden mussels can form dense colonies and consume large amounts of plankton that native fish and wildlife rely on. The agency said the mussels can also clog pipes and watercraft motors, affecting water flow and increasing maintenance needs.
Because the species can live in a wider variety of waterbodies — from lakes and rivers to estuaries — ODFW said golden mussels represent a major threat to Oregon.
The agency urged the public to help prevent the spread of invasive species by ensuring watercraft are cleaned, drained and dried. ODFW also emphasized that vehicles towing or carrying watercraft in Oregon must stop at open inspection stations.
For students, young workers, and weekend recreationists, the warning is especially relevant as boating and fishing gear can move between waterways quickly.
ODFW did not announce any Oregon detections in the post, but said prevention steps are critical to protect waterways.
