BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Kern County officials are preparing to take emergency action over the spread of invasive golden mussels and are seeking help from the state.
According to an agenda, the Kern County Board of Supervisors is expected to declare a state of emergency in Kern County next week regarding invasive golden mussels. The board is seeking help from Governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday, May 12.
Golden mussels are impacting the environment through loss of native and game fish through competition of the same food sources and as a contributor to harmful, fish-killing algae blooms, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife said.
FILE – Workers doing maintenance on a pump near Five Points along the California Aqueduct. The pump was clogged due to golden mussels. (Photo: FOX26 Photojournalist Bert Montelongo)
The department said recreational impacts of the mussel include waterbody closures, mandatory inspections, increased launch and/or entry fees, and reduced numbers of fish and shellfish for consumption.
Economic impacts include costly repairs and maintenance for boats, water infrastructure and hydroelectric facilities, along with reduced water flow affecting food production, water delivery to homes and flood control.
Golden Mussels were first reported in Kern County in July 2025, appearing in Mettler, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Photo: California Department of Fish and Wildlife
The board is expected to review the call for a state of emergency during its 2 p.m. meeting in downtown Bakersfield.
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More information is available at wildlife.ca.gov.