Golden Mussels

A threat greater than ever before.

Invasive golden mussels were discovered for the first time in North America in October 2024 in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta of California. Golden mussels are NOT in Lake Tahoe, and you can help us keep it that way.

The golden mussel is likened to quagga mussels, an invasive species that the Lake Tahoe inspection program has successfully kept out of Lake Tahoe since beginning in 2008.

Golden mussels are highly efficient filter feeders that can alter Lake Tahoe’s water quality, displacing native species and sport fish. They form dense colonies on hard surfaces using adhesive “byssal threads.” They can encrust boats, piers, rocks, and pipes. Their colonization impedes water flow through pipes and fouls watercraft motors.

Golden mussels can tolerate a broader range of habitats than quagga and zebra mussels, making them more of a threat to Lake Tahoe. They survive in brackish and fresh water, and in waters with lower calcium concentration than other mussels.

Map: Golden Mussel Presence in California

Help us keep golden mussels OUT of Lake Tahoe.

Mandatory watercraft decontamination

All motorized watercraft traveling from other areas will receive a decontamination following the mandatory inspection. As always, boats that were launched last in Lake Tahoe and have a Tahoe security seal can launch again without reinspection. Decontamination fees apply.

Clean, Drain, and Dry ALL watercraft

All gear that comes in contact with water has the potential to spread invasive species. Clean, Drain, and Dry everything, including your kayak, paddleboard, fishing gear, hydrofoil, and inflatables. Decontaminations are free for hand-launched non-motorized watercraft.

Visit TahoeKeepers.org to learn how.