Golden mussel prevention ramps up to protect local waterways

Grass Valley, CA - April 21, 2026 – Boat launches at foothill reservoirs reopen May 1, and the Nevada Irrigation District (NID) is reminding boaters that its watercraft tagging program remains in place at Scotts Flat and Rollins reservoirs.

The program is designed to prevent the spread of the invasive golden mussel, a species that can clog pipes, damage infrastructure, and harm boat motors.

All motorized watercraft must complete a 30-day quarantine (60 days for boats with ballast tanks or live wells) or undergo approved decontamination prior to launching.

How the program works: Boaters bring their trailered watercraft to Scotts Flat or Rollins, where staff applies a quarantine seal. After the required period, the seal is removed and the boat may launch. Boaters who prefer not to wait may choose professional decontamination. Upon exiting the water, boaters can receive a re-entry seal, allowing return visits without repeating the quarantine, provided the seal remains intact.

“By working together, we can prevent the introduction of this highly damaging mussel to our waters,” said Monica Reyes, NID Director of Recreation.

The NID program was launched last year, and no golden mussels have been detected in either Rollins or Scotts Flat reservoirs. However, the species was identified at the Port of Stockton in 2024 and remains a serious regional threat.

Jackson Meadows update

NID has been working with the U.S. Forest Service to reopen Jackson Meadows Reservoir for the 2026 season. The Pass Creek launch is scheduled to open May 22 (weather and staffing permitting), operating Thursday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with a $28 launch fee. The same Golden Mussel prevention requirements -- quarantine or decontamination -- will apply prior to first launch.

Bowman Lake will remain closed to motorized and trailered boats for the 2026 season.

For more information about the 2026 program, visit NID’s Golden Mussel webpage: https://www.nidwater.com/nevada-irrigation-district-mussel-prevention-program

Watch a short video explaining the tagging process: https://youtu.be/NL6P07LoVbc