California scales back golden mussel safeguards at vital reservoir, alarming experts

California scales back golden mussel safeguards at vital reservoir, alarming experts

The state of California is walking back protections meant to keep destructive golden mussels out of Lake Oroville, one of the largest and most important reservoirs in the state.  The move follows a new state-funded risk assessment that the invasive species poses a lower risk to the lake, which water managers say changes the state’s calculus on costly and difficult measures aimed at keeping the invaders at bay.   No state agencies or scientists h…

Kern agencies discuss golden mussel treatment, prevention even as state nixes boat inspections at key reservoir

A host of Kern water districts gathered recently to share information about the golden mussel as part of the county’s emergency declaration over the rapidly spreading invasive species. At the top of the needs list was funding, yes, but also a coordinated battle plan from the state level on down.  Water managers have been frustrated by what they feel is a lack of urgency and consistency toward the mussels on the part of the state.  “We’re in full…