Ontario and Quebec have spent over thirty years dealing with the devastating consequences of invasive zebra and quagga mussels. The first detection of mussels in Manitoba occurred in 2013 and mussels have continued to spread throughout the province. In August 2023 zebra mussels were confirmed in New Brunswick for the first time. These invasions have had raw water users on high alert and the consequences of infestation may be significant and appear quickly.
Provinces that are currently mussel free have initiated programs to prevent the spread of mussels into their waterways. Should raw water users (manufacturing, industrial, power generation, water transfer, etc.) in mussel free areas do anything to ensure the operational integrity of their facilities before mussels arrive in their area? In short, the answer is yes!
An effective plan for any raw water user concerned about being impacted by the invasive mussels involves:
- Pre-planning – Assess the risk, know the regional/provincial management plans, and know when detection occurs. Consult an expert!
- Risk Assessment – A facility vulnerability assessment will determine potential impacts of mussel infestations by examining the facility, the risk to all water systems, its’ environment and the regulatory authorities. Be prepared!
- Monitoring Program – Design and implement a sampling program to detect the arrival of mussels into the facility. Get the data!
- Control Program – An assessment of available options will determine the best option for the facility, using monitoring program data to determine when to implement a treatment. Initiate the plan!
Need help? ASI has over 30 years of experience in designing, engineering and implementing mussel monitoring and treatment programs. Using this multidisciplinary approach can help you be prepared, get the data and initiate the plan to ensure your facility remains free from operational issues associated with mussel infestations.
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