Bureau of Reclamation

Description

Since 2002 the Washington State Legislature and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) have recognized the economic and ecological risk posed to the Pacific Northwest by quagga mussels. In doing so, the state legislature directed WDFW to develop and participate in comprehensive regional planning efforts to protect aquatic resources in Washington and the Pacific Northwest. It is estimated that if mussels were to become established in the Columbia River Basin they could quickly move downriver, invading the entire Columbia River system, and the projected cost of controlling them at that point is $500 million annually. Prevention is the least expensive, most effective course of action, which is why this project – utilizing a mussel detection canine for detection – will be a highly effective project. This project supports efforts to protect the aquatic environment from aquatic invasive species and, more specifically, supports DOI’s mandated “Safeguarding the West from Invasive Species – Invasive Mussels” initiative.

Who can apply

• State governments

Contact

R.Filbert <br/>Grants Management Spec <br/>Phone 208-378-5241
rfilbert@usbr.gov