The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking volunteers to assist in sampling and monitoring programs for zebra mussels and/or the Chinese mitten crab.

Zebra Mussel

Presently, the zebra mussel is continuing its infestation of the Great Lakes and over 20 mid-western and eastern states. It has caused billions of dollars in economic damage and is completely altering the preexisting aquatic environment. The mussel and/or its larvae are easily transported on water craft leaving contaminated lakes and rivers, and entering new water systems. This species is highly adaptable and would flourish in the waters of this state, causing similar detrimental effects as it has in the midwest and east. Recent commercial vehicle inspection activities have identified boats with zebra mussels being transported into the state of Washington. The boats were quarantined and cleaned prior to launch, but these inspection efforts catch only a very small percentage of the boats entering the state from eastern waters.

Your help is needed! Early detection through sample monitoring greatly increases the chances WDFW could control and possibly eradicate new zebra mussel infestations, should they occur.

Volunteer Activity 1) A substrate zebra mussel sampling program is coordinated through the Center for Lakes and Reservoirs, at Portland Sate University. The program encompasses the Pacific Northwest and is seeking volunteers to provide substrate monitoring for the mussels. Sampling consists of hanging a PVC pipe from a dock, pier, or other support, and periodically checking the pipe for adhered organisms. Large public lakes and river systems are of particular interest since they generally receive abundant boat traffic that may lead to introduction of the zebra mussel. The time commitment is minimal, and physical demand is low. If you are interested in this program and would like more information, please contact Toni Pennington at CLR, Portland State Univ. - ESR, Portland, OR 97207-0751, Ph. (503) 725-9075, or Email: Toni@pdx.edu.

Volunteer Activity 2) Plankton tow sampling is used to identify zebra mussel veligers (the larval form of mussels). This type of sampling requires a boat, some time, and one or more monthly visits to a lake or river. Sampling equipment will be provided and will include a net, sample bottles, and labels. This method of detection involves 30' to 100' drift tows in areas that may be likely introduction sites for the mussel. Such areas include boat launches or marinas, but sampling may also be warranted in other locations for improved coverage. Netted material is condensed into a 12 ounce bottle and returned to the contact address. This method of monitoring involves moderate physical activity. If you are interested in this program or would like more information, please contact Pamala Meacham at WDFW, 6th Floor NRB, 600 Capitol Way N., Olympia, WA 98501-1091, Ph. (360) 902-2741, or Email: meachpmm@dfw.wa.gov

Chinese Mitten Crab

Volunteer Activity 3) Volunteers are needed to begin monitoring areas in the state, especially along the lower Columbia river system. The mitten crab is an invasive species to the U.S. that has been introduced into California waters and could be introduced to the Columbia or other saltwater connected watersheds. The crab is a catadromous species (reproduces in saltwater and lives in freshwater), can migrate overland, is highly prolific, is a second intermediate host to a parasite harmful to humans, and can cause significant economic damage.

Volunteer activities would consist of performing shoreline walks, looking for this distinctive crab species or their borrows. This is a passive activity and can be incorporated into a variety of other outdoor activities that bring the participant into visual contact with the water's edge. If you are interested in this program or would like more information, please contact Pamala Meacham at WDFW, 6th Floor NRB, 600 Capitol Way N., Olympia, WA 98501-1091, Ph. (360) 902-2741, or Email: meachpmm@dfw.wa.gov