The Mussel Problem
Invasive mussels continue to spread throughout US, Canada, and the EU. They infest any system exposed and clog water inlets, pumps, and pipes; obstruct flow; cause erosion; strain pumps and other equipment; impact the surrounding ecosystem; harm native species; and reduce aesthetics.
Invasive mussels cost the US billions of dollars. In 2009, the total cost to the US was estimated to be $3.1 billion over the next ten years. It costs over $500M annually to manage mussels in the Great Lakes and the estimated cost of a mussel invasion in the Pacific Northwest exceeds $500M annually. Maintenance of pipes clogged with mussels costs the power industry $60M annually.
For more background on the invasive mussel problem, check out these sites:
US Geological Survey factsheet
Great Lakes Environmental Assessment and Mapping Project