MCRCD works with the Mendocino County Water Agency to prevent infestation of quagga and zebra mussels in Mill Creek Ponds. Under a grant from California State Parks, Division of Boating and Waterways and in conjunction with California Department of Fish and Wildlife, MCRCD conducts monthly monitoring for quagga and zebra mussels at Mill Creek Ponds.
Quagga and Zebra Mussel Prevention Plan for Mill Creek Ponds in Mendocino County
Quagga/Zebra Mussel Fact Sheet
Quagga/Zebra Mussel Frequently Asked Questions
There are currently no quagga or zebra mussels in North Coast waterways, including Mill Creek Ponds, Lake Sonoma, or Lake Mendocino. Let’s keep it that way by practicing Clean, Drain, and Dry!
To prevent the spread of quagga and zebra mussels, Clean, Drain and Dry. Inspect all exposed boat surfaces when leaving the water. Small mussels feel like sandpaper to the touch. Be sure to:
- Clean the hull of each watercraft thoroughly and remove all plant and animal material.
- Clean and dry all live-wells.
- Clean: Dispose of all bait in the trash.
- Drain all water and dry all areas.
- Drain and dry all buckets.
- Dry the vessel for five days in hot weather and up to 30 days when cool and moist.
- Keep watercraft dry between launches in different bodies of freshwater.
- Report sightings of quagga and zebra mussels by contacting the California Department of Fish and Wildlife at invasives@wildlife.ca.gov.
