Sacramento County leaders have declared a local emergency over the growing threat of golden mussels, an invasive species from Asia that experts warn could harm waterways, ecosystems, and infrastructure if it continues spreading. California water managers have been working to contain the invasive species, which reproduces rapidly and has already spread from the Delta to Stockton. … Sacramento County leaders declared the emergency on Tuesday, citing fears that the mussels could harm the natural ecosystem by affecting the food fish feed on and clogging critical water infrastructure like water pipes and pumps. … The department is urging anyone who boats, owns jet skis, or kayaks to clean, dry, and drain their vessels to prevent the spread of the mussels.

Other invasive species news:

• SFGate: The people on the front lines of Tahoe’s fight against golden mussels
• Redheaded Blackbelt (Phillipsville, Calif.): A microscopic threat to Humboldt’s water supply is changing the rules at Ruth Lake