Invasive Golden Mussels Intercepted at Oregon Boat Inspection Station

Oregon officials warn of serious threat to state's fisheries and infrastructure

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:50am

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A highly structured abstract painting in soft, earthy tones of green, brown, and blue, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise botanical spirals, conceptually illustrating the complex biological structure and ecological impact of the invasive golden mussel.A visual representation of the invasive golden mussel and the complex ecological forces it poses to Oregon's waterways.Ashland Today

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) announced that staff at the Ashland boat inspection station detected invasive golden mussels on a watercraft being transported from the Sacramento River Delta to Oregon on April 4. This marks the first time golden mussels have been found in Oregon and the second occurrence of the invasive species in North America.

Why it matters

Golden mussels are an aggressive invasive species that can damage water infrastructure, degrade water quality, and disrupt native ecosystems. Their detection at the Ashland inspection station highlights the critical role these inspection stations play in protecting Oregon's waterways from the threat of invasive species.

The details

The golden mussels were discovered on a watercraft being transported to a new owner from the Sacramento River Delta. Once detected, the watercraft was decontaminated and the mussels were properly disposed of. Golden mussels are similar to zebra or quagga mussels but can tolerate a wider range of temperatures and some water salinity. They feed heavily on microscopic aquatic plants and animals that are essential food sources for native species and sport fish.

  • Golden mussels were first detected in North America in 2024.
  • The mussels discovered in Oregon were found on April 4, 2026 at the Ashland boat inspection station.

The players

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW)

The state agency responsible for managing Oregon's fish and wildlife resources, including the operation of the watercraft inspection stations.

Keith DeHart

ODFW's Invasive Species Coordinator, who emphasized the critical role of the inspection stations in preventing the spread of invasive mussels into Oregon's waters.

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What they’re saying

“Early detection like this shows how critical watercraft inspections are to protecting our fisheries, infrastructure, and agriculture.”

— Keith DeHart, ODFW Invasive Species Coordinator

What’s next

ODFW will continue operating the Ashland inspection station year-round, as well as opening seasonal inspection stations in Brookings, Klamath Falls, Umatilla, and at Owyhee Reservoir in the first week of May. The agency will also have roving inspection crews working boat ramps and other access points around the state.

The takeaway

The discovery of invasive golden mussels at the Ashland inspection station underscores the ongoing threat that aquatic invasive species pose to Oregon's waterways and the critical importance of the state's watercraft inspection program in preventing their spread. This incident highlights the need for continued vigilance and cooperation from boaters to protect Oregon's natural resources.