States across the Pacific Northwest are intensifying efforts to combat invasive aquatic species threatening local ecosystems, infrastructure, and industries.
In Oregon, officials have launched mandatory boat inspections to prevent the introduction of golden mussels, a highly adaptable species native to Asia that can damage water infrastructure and harm water quality. While not yet detected in Oregon, golden mussels were found in California in 2024. Oregon’s Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has established inspection stations at five state entry points and is promoting a “Clean, Drain, Dry” approach for all watercraft.
California has listed golden mussels as a restricted species and unveiled a Golden Mussel Response Framework in April 2025 to coordinate prevention and mitigation across jurisdictions.
In Washington, the focus is on European green crabs, which threaten native shellfish and coastal habitats. Over 1.7 million crabs have been removed since 2022. Recent detections in South Central Puget Sound mark the first sightings in that area, prompting expanded collaborative trapping efforts involving WDFW and tribal partners.
Additionally, Oregon reported its first detection of another invasive species—Chinese mitten crabs—in the Columbia River this spring. The state is now working with Washington and NOAA Fisheries on further surveillance.
Together, these coordinated state actions underscore the region’s growing urgency to curb aquatic invasives before they gain a stronger foothold.
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