Research and Development Office

Testing ability of widely used fish screens to resist quagga mussel fouling

Project ID: 5740
Principal Investigator: Cathy Karp
Research Topic: Invasive Species
Priority Area Assignments: 2014 (Zebra and Quagga Mussels), 2015 (Zebra and Quagga Mussels), 2016 (Zebra and Quagga Mussels)
Funded Fiscal Years: 2014 and 2015
Keywords: fish screens, quagga mussel fouling

Research Question

Quagga mussels and possibly zebra mussels have become established in portions of the western United States. They were first discovered in Lake Mead, lower Colorado River, in 2007 and since have been positively identified in other river systems. Our question is: How well can existing fish screen systems function in mussel infested water, and what modifications are necessary so that water deliveries remain reliable?

Need and Benefit

Many sizes and types of fish screens are in place or are being considered for installation in the western United States. However, increasing presence of the invasive quagga mussel may make these screens inoperable because they could clog the screen openings. The testing and determination of combinations of screen type, screen coating, and cleaning mechanism must be developed before mussels become more widespread.

Contributing Partners

Contact the Principal Investigator for information about partners.

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