Fight Against Golden Mussels Intensifies with New Shasta-Trinity Lake Protections

The Shasta-Trinity National Forest has announced a new two-year order aimed at keeping invasive mussels out of some of Northern California’s most important lakes.

The order, in effect from December 4, 2025 through December 4, 2027, prohibits the possession or transport of golden, zebra, or quagga mussels in and around five major waterbodies: Shasta Lake, Trinity Lake, Lewiston Lake, McCloud Reservoir, and Iron Canyon Reservoir — including all boat ramps accessing those lakes.

The move comes after the discovery of golden mussels in the Bay-Delta near Stockton in late 2024. The species, native to South America, spreads aggressively and can clog water infrastructure, damage ecosystems, harm agriculture, and create costly economic impacts. Zebra and quagga mussels pose similar threats and have already caused millions in damage in other states.

With the order in place, violations can carry fines of up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, along with possible jail time. Forest officials emphasize that prevention is key: once these mussels invade a waterbody, removal is virtually impossible.

Recreationists are urged to follow the Clean, Drain, Dry protocol every time they launch or haul out watercraft. That includes removing all aquatic debris from boats and trailers, draining bilges and live-wells, thoroughly drying equipment, and checking for any lake-specific inspection rules before visiting. California also requires a Mussel Fee Sticker on all motorized freshwater boats.

The state has developed a Golden Mussel Response Framework to help coordinate suppression and containment efforts, but keeping the species out of Northern California’s lakes remains the most effective defense.