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Marine Board warns mussel risk is 'on the doorstep' after Idaho finds invasive mussels
Summary
Staff told the Oregon State Marine Board that invasive mussels were found in Idaho's Snake River, that Idaho spent about $3 million on eradication, and that Oregon and Washington have formed a joint workgroup to prepare response plans; staff expect possible legislative funding proposals.
The Oregon State Marine Board received an aquatic invasive species (AIS) update warning that invasive mussels are a near-term threat after detections in Idahos Snake River. Staff said the program (started in 2009) has a biennial budget of approximately $1.7 million, most of which funds ODFW inspection stations. Portland State University performs sampling for microscopic larvae (veligers). The staff presentation noted Idaho spent about $3 million on eradication work and used a copper-based treatment, and that Oregon is "on high alert" and coordinating regionally with Washington.
AIS staff said the board should expect legislative conversations about increasing funding and possibly broadening the funding base to include power producers and irrigation districts that face major infrastructure impacts from mussel colonization. Staff said they will continue to fund ODFW inspection stations and outreach but that full-time 24/7 staffing of check stations is currently unaffordable. "We're on high alert," staff said, and the board asked staff to track and report potential legislative requests and coordination with tribes and neighboring states.
Board members asked about sampling methods, staffing of inspection stations and decontamination plans; staff outlined PSU sampling for veligers and the role of ODFW-managed check stations and law enforcement partnerships.
