Background

Clear Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake located entirely in California, and consistently ranks among Bassmaster's top 10 bass fishing lakes (https://www.bassmaster. com/best-bass-lakes/slideshow/top-10-best-basslakes-of-2022/1051157). Although Clear Lake provides ideal water quality conditions and habitat for an established mussel introduction, Clear Lake currently has no quagga or zebra (QZ) mussels. Lake County relies on a prevention program supported primarily through State grants. Local mussel stickers are also sold.

Clear Lake is the county's central feature, providing economic and ecological stability to the entire region. However, the popularity and accessibility of Clear Lake, combined with water quality conditions optimal for mussel establishment, mean risk of invasive mussel invasion is extremely high.

The February 2 webinar will share information on the invasive mussel rapid response and containment transition project, which is intended to improve the current Clear Lake aquatic invasive species program while preparing for an invasive mussel introduction to Clear Lake or Lake County.

The webinar will share the goals of the project and the approach that will be taken to achieve those goals, the timeline, and products. A containment and transition plan, feasibility analysis for permanent watercraft decontamination stations, and assessment of regulations and ordinances are three key outcomes.

Information regarding consequences to Clear Lake and neighboring lakes from a mussel invasion will also be shared, including potential impacts to county revenue and property values, effects on native fish and wildlife, and increased costs and maintenance for all water suppliers and self-supplied water users.

By preparing for an invasion, we are seeking to mitigate effects to the local economy and natural resources.

Information about the project can be found at https://www.clearlakemusselprevention/org.

The recording of the webinar will be posted here: clearlakemusselprevention.org/get-involved

To register for the webinar go to this link: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/5443517570625956186

If you have any questions or need more information, please contact the Water Resources Department, at water.resources@lakecountyca.gov, or by phone, at (707)263-2344. Also visit WRD's website, http://www.lakecountyca.gov/Government/Directory/WaterResources.htm or the “Lake County Water Resources Department” Facebook page, @lakecountywater.