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Washington Declares Golden Mussels a “Prohibited” Invasive Species

April 29, 2026 CAA Staff

Following the discovery of golden mussels in Oregon earlier this month, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has enacted emergency rules to reclassify the species as Prohibited Level 1. This “banned” status makes it illegal to possess, transport, or introduce the mussels into state waters. Though not yet established in Washington, officials warn that an infestation could cause upwards of $100 million in annual damage to infrastructure and local ecosystems.

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