Golden Mussels Threaten California's Water | Sacramento News

Sacramento News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 22, 2026 · 1m

Golden mussels are turning into a statewide crisis as Yolo, Sacramento, San Joaquin, and Stockton counties declare emergencies to combat the invasive species choking the vital Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta — the water lifeline for two-thirds of California’s population and millions of acres of farmland. These tiny but tenacious mussels cling to everything, clogging pipes and docks, and spreading via boats and equipment. With state funding already poured in and experts warning total eradication is impossible, the focus is now on slowing their spread — urging residents to clean, drain, and dry…