Volunteer Monitoring
for Zebra Mussels Economic Impacts
•
•Dams and irrigation systems
–Colonize
interior of turbines,
pumps and other equipment, leading to costly repairs
–Encrust
fish ladders
Dense growths of
zebra mussels on breakwalls, locks and dams, and control structures are also
of concern. Once they colonize the interiors of turbines, pumps, and
associated equipment, removing them can be a costly proposition. They are
also known to increase the rate of corrosion of iron and steel structures at
the point of attachment
Zebra mussels
can also attach to fish ladders, fish diversion screens, and other pipes and
conduits that sensitive fish species use to make their way around dams. Their
shells are sharp and could injure passing fish; they could build up and
disrupt water flow; and ultimately, they could threaten other species,
including endangered salmon.
