Lake Oroville’s Invasive Mussel Prevention Program Is Working. Here’s What Boaters Need to Know.

In welcome news for boaters and anglers across Northern California, Lake Oroville and its surrounding waterways remain free of invasive golden mussels.

The latest monitoring confirms that the Thermalito Forebay and Afterbay have also tested negative for the species, which was previously discovered at Folsom Lake and has raised alarms about its potential to spread across the state’s reservoir system.

Golden mussels are small, ranging from half an inch to two inches, with yellowish-brown shells that can attach to pipes, boats and underwater infrastructure. Once a population takes hold, it is extremely difficult to control and can clog water delivery systems, damage fish habitat and increase treatment costs for communities that rely on reservoir water.

The Department of Water Resources continues to run a mandatory boat inspection program at Oroville. Before launching, all watercraft must be inspected, certified as mussel-free and receive a blue Oroville seal. Inspection and decontamination services are free and located at the North Thermalito Forebay near the intersection of Garden Drive and Highway 70. Hours are daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The inspection requirement applies to all boats, including those launching at Loafer Creek, Lime Saddle, Enterprise and Bidwell Canyon. Hand-launched watercraft from Wilbur Road are also subject to inspection.

Lake Oroville is currently sitting at about 96% of total capacity, well above the historical average for this time of year.