Invasive golden mussels continue to spread through California waterways, increasing concerns about damage to water infrastructure, threats to agriculture and rising costs for boaters and communities. The issue was the focus of a public discussion Monday in Stockton, where Rep. Josh Harder and Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom discussed efforts to contain the mussels and limit their spread. Stockton was where golden mussels were first detected in California more than two years ago. ”It continues to be where we have the biggest problem with golden mussels across our state,” Harder said. … Harder’s bill would establish a rapid-response program, expand inspection stations and support research into ways to eradicate the mussels. The legislation received a congressional hearing last month but still needs approval before it can take effect.

Other invasive species news:

• Active NorCal (Redding, Calif.): California nearly tripled the mussel fee for freshwater boaters, and the money is going after golden mussels​