Bakersfield meeting unites policymakers, water agencies to address invasive golden mussels

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (FOX26) — With invasive golden mussels emerging as a growing threat to water systems, Rep. Vince Fong and SEPRO Water convened policymakers and local water stakeholders in Bakersfield to discuss the issue as local counties face states of emergency.

Golden mussels have the potential to disrupt reliable water delivery to California residents and the state’s approximately 7.8 million irrigated areas, underscoring the need for coordinated action among local agencies and government stakeholders to protect California’s water future.

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The informational event included a roundtable discussion with water managers that focused on the need for early action.

It also featured a fireside chat between Fong and Andrea Sealock, SEPRO Water’s regional manager for the West, centered on how science-based treatment strategies are being used to manage the spread of invasive mussels.