Golden Mussels

An underwater view of golden mussels growing on a dock at a Delta boatyard in Stockton on Oct. 23, 2025. Photo by Fred Greaves f

INVASIVE SPECIES AWARENESS - GOLDEN MUSSELS

Mono County is committed to supporting healthy fish and wildlife populations, maintaining recreational opportunities, and protecting local ecosystems.

New ordinances in Mono and Inyo Counties now require mandatory inspections for all trailered watercraft before launch. Boaters must stop at an official WID station and receive an inspection sticker before launching.

 

 
Why this matters

Golden mussels are not here yet and pose a significant threat to Mono County waterways.

They spread easily, reproduce rapidly, and can permanently damage our lakes, fisheries, infrastructure, and local economy.  Once introduced, they cannot be removed. Prevention is our best option. 

What You Can Do
  • Share these new inspection requirements with visitors, employees, and community members
  • Share information with visitors, employees, and community members
  • Post awareness materials at your business, on your website and social media, with lodging reservations, etc. 
  • Direct visitors to WID stations
  • Promote Clean, Drain, Dry practices - if they clean, drain, dry before they visit, it will save time and hassle. 
Business & Partner Toolkit

www.vcptoolkit.org/golden-mussels
Access and download: business info flyer, mussel monster poster, social media graphics and copy, digital banner for websites and e-mail signatures.

Public-facing website

www.easternsierrawid.com
Includes WID station locations, dates, hours, FAQs, and links to other resources

 

Materials

Downloadable materials are available at the bottom of this page. ​

For printed materials or larger quantities, please e-mail [email protected].

 

Click any thumbnail image to view a slideshow

Sampling plates hauled from the water at the Port of Stockton were completely encrusted with mussels on Oct. 23, 2025. The plate
An underwater view of golden mussels growing on a dock at a Delta boatyard in Stockton on Oct. 23, 2025. Photo by Fred Greaves f
A worker scrapes golden mussels from a pontoon on a work barge at a Delta boatyard. Photo by Fred Greaves for CalMatters.
Don't Move a Mussel! Golden Mussels Poster