Golden Mussels Invasion Incident
Emergency Proclamation
On April 28, 2026, the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors proclaimed a local emergency in response to the growing threat posed by the invasive golden mussel in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta (Delta), urgently calling for strengthened State partnership, additional resources, and coordinated action to protect one of California’s most vital waterways.
The golden mussel poses serious risks to water conveyance systems, flood control infrastructure, agriculture, recreation, and the Delta ecosystem. Officials warn the species can rapidly colonize surfaces, clog pipelines, restrict water flows, and disrupt natural habitats.
Declaring a local emergency helps the County respond faster and more effectively by allowing it to:
- Raise awareness about the threat
- Seek State and Federal funding
- Strengthen partnerships with other agencies
Read the Press Release
Download the Emergency Proclamation
Report Golden Mussels
Your report helps San Joaquin County and the State track and respond quickly to protect the Delta and prevent further spread.
What Are Golden Mussels
Golden mussels are small invasive shellfish that attach to hard surfaces in the water.
They can:
- Clog pipes, pumps, and water systems
- Reduce water flow and damage infrastructure
- Increase maintenance costs for public systems and businesses
- Once established, they are extremely difficult and costly to remove.
See where the Golden Mussels have been detected on the Golden Mussel Detection Map.
Learn more by visiting the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website for the latest information and resources.
Why This Matters
The Delta is one of California’s most important natural and economic resources. It supports the region and State’s water supply, local farms, jobs, and outdoor recreation.
Today, that resource is facing a new threat: the golden mussel, an invasive species that can quickly spread and cause serious damage. Once established, they are extremely difficult and costly to remove.
The Delta is too important to wait. By acting now, we can protect the water, environment, and economy for future generations. Top of Form
The Delta is part of everyday life for people across our region and the State.
It supports:
- Agriculture and local jobs
- Boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation
- Drinking water systems across California
If golden mussels continue to spread, the impacts could reach far beyond San Joaquin County.
How You Can Help
Everyone has a role in protecting the Delta and stopping the spread of invasive species like the golden mussel.
If you boat or spend time on the water, take these simple steps every time:
- CLEAN off plants, animals, and mud from boats, trailers, and gear
- DRAIN all water from boats, motors, and equipment
- DRY everything completely before entering another waterway
These small actions make a big difference in preventing the spread.
Just as important, share what you know with your groups on social media. Talk with your friends, neighbors, and family about what golden mussels are and how to stop them. Spreading awareness helps protect the Delta for everyone.
Together, we can help protect our waterways, our communities, and our future.
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