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California aquaculture operators are urged to stay vigilant as federal lawmakers step up efforts to combat a rising aquatic invasive threat.

U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (D-CA) have officially introduced the Golden Mussel Eradication and Control Act in the Senate. This federal push aims to provide state and local authorities with resources to halt the spread of the golden mussel (Limnoperna fortunei), an aggressive invasive species that poses a severe threat to California’s water infrastructure, fragile Delta ecosystems, and aquaculture operations.

A companion bill was previously introduced in the House by U.S. Representative Josh Harder (D-CA). If passed, the legislation will:

• Establish a federal demonstration program dedicated to the prevention, eradication, and control of golden mussels.
• Deploy new technologies, inspection stations, and rapid-response programs.
• Track dispersal patterns and develop early warning systems for future infestations.
• Provide grant funding for localized state and community mitigation efforts.

First detected in California in 2024, the golden mussel originates from China and Southeast Asia. Much like zebra and quagga mussels, these bio-foulers multiply rapidly and can swiftly clog vital water intake pipes, damage pumps, and compromise water infrastructure. Furthermore, they alter local water chemistry by releasing byproducts like nitrogen and phosphorus, which can trigger dangerous algal blooms – a major hazard to fish health and water quality in aquaculture systems.

The threat is expanding regionally. Oregon officials intercepted golden mussels on a watercraft earlier this spring, and Washington State recently reclassified the species to a “Prohibited Level 1” invasive threat.

CAA will continue to monitor the progress of this bill and keep members updated on new biosecurity protocols, inspection requirements, or funding opportunities that emerge.