PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Golden mussels may sound cool, but they’re actually a major threat to Oregon’s waterways following their discovery along the California Coast last year.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife says the mussels are an invasive freshwater species that can damage water infrastructure, such as irrigation and hydropower systems. As of May 2025, they have not been detected in Oregon waters.
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However, their arrival to the West Coast comes as the state manages the arrival of other invasive species such as quagga and zebra mussels.
“The threat to Oregon is very serious,” said Keith DeHart, the ODFW’s invasive species coordinator. “Golden mussels are similar to zebra or quagga mussels, but they can establish in a much wider range of temperatures and water salinity.”
To prevent their spread, ODFW officials are implementing seasonal boat inspection stations along with crews on boat ramps who can help with decontamination. Watercraft can be motorized or non-motorized — including kayaks, canoes, rafts, and stand-up paddleboards.
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Inspections can be made easier by cleaning and draining all watercraft before leaving any body of water.
“Clean, drain, and dry is the most effective way to prevent the spread of invasive species,” DeHart said. “And having a clean and dry boat is also the fastest way to get through an inspection station.”
Inspection Station Locations:
- Ashland – I-5 at the Ashland Port of Entry
- Brookings – Hwy. 101 at the Brookings weigh station
- Klamath Falls (new location 2025) – US-97 at the Midland Rest Area
- Ontario – I-84 at the Ontario Rest Area
- Umatilla – Hwy. 730 at the Umatilla Port of Entry
For more information about invasive species, visit the ODFW website.
