Eradication of Invasive Mussels in Open Water - Stage 1

  • Image of microscopic invasive mussel.

    Launch: December 14, 2017
    Awarded: October 29, 2018

    The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking innovative solutions to eradicate invasive zebra and quagga mussels from large reservoirs, lakes, and rivers in a cost effective and environmentally sound manner. Invasive mussel infestations pose significant logistical and economic challenges for local communities, recreationists and water managers. Currently, no practical methods exist for large-scale control of invasive dreissenid mussel populations once they become widely established in a lake or reservoir (referred to as “open-water”). Solutions can be novel treatments or approaches that build upon existing treatments. This challenge launches Stage 1 of a planned three-stage Grand Challenge that includes laboratory-scale and field-scale demonstrations.