Folsom Lake Boating Ban: How Golden Mussels are Impacting Boating Regulations

Folsom Lake Boating Ban: How Golden Mussels are Impacting Boating Regulations

Golden mussels, an invasive species recently discovered in North America, pose a significant threat to California’s waterways, leading to new boating regulations at Folsom Lake and Lake Clementine. As of April 14, 2025, all trailered or motorized vessels launching at these lakes are subject to mandatory inspections and quarantine measures. These actions are necessary to prevent the spread of golden mussels, which can cause substantial damage to the ecosystem, water infrastructure, and even your boat.

The Golden Mussel Threat: A Clear and Present Danger

Golden mussels ( Limnoperna fortunei) are small, freshwater mollusks native to Asia. They were first detected in California in October 2024 in the Port of Stockton. Since then, they have rapidly spread through connected waterways, reaching as far south as Bakersfield. This rapid spread has alarmed officials, prompting immediate action to protect California’s water resources.

Why are golden mussels such a concern?

  • Ecological Damage: Golden mussels can dramatically reduce the abundance of zooplankton and phytoplankton, disrupting the food web and harming fisheries. They can also increase the frequency of toxic algae blooms.
  • Infrastructure Damage: These mussels colonize hard surfaces, clogging pipes, screens, and filters in water intake and conveyance systems. This can impact water delivery and power generation.
  • Damage to Boats: Golden mussels attach to boat hulls and clog engines, leading to increased costs for boat owners.

The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and California State Parks have implemented these measures to avoid closing the lakes entirely to recreational boating. According to Folsom Lake SRA Superintendent Mike Howard, these prevention measures are a far better alternative to a golden mussel infestation, which would cause substantial damage to the ecosystem, fishery, power generation, and water delivery systems at Folsom Dam and Reservoir.

New Boating Regulations at Folsom Lake and Lake Clementine

Effective April 14, 2025, the following regulations are in place for trailered or motorized vessels at Folsom Lake and Lake Clementine:

  • Temporary Closure: The lakes will be temporarily closed to all trailered or motorized vessel launching.
  • Mandatory Inspection: All vessels must undergo an inspection for the presence of mussels and onboard water. Inspections will be conducted at Beals Point beginning April 14, Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The inspection process is expected to take 15 to 30 minutes, excluding wait times.
  • 30-Day Quarantine: After inspection, a red quarantine seal will be applied to the vessel, preventing it from launching for 30 days. The seal includes a cable through the bow eye of the vessel and around the frame of the trailer to ensure it is not launched. The seals are tamper-evident and serialized, with each application entered into a database.
  • Quarantine Seal Removal: Beginning May 14, vessels completing the 30-day quarantine may return to the lakes to have the seal removed by authorized staff and can then launch.
  • Exit Sealing: Boaters wishing to return to the lakes in the future can have their boat sealed upon exiting the water, exempting them from future quarantine periods as long as the seal remains intact.
  • Decontamination Option: After May 14, boaters can opt for a hot-water decontamination performed by an approved station instead of the 30-day quarantine. These vessels will receive a green seal and can launch immediately following decontamination.
  • Lake Natoma Restrictions: Only hand-launched boats are permitted on Lake Natoma. Trailered vessels are not allowed. The existing 5 mph speed limit for motorized craft remains in effect.

Exemptions:

  • Hand-launched, non-motorized watercraft, such as kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, rowing shells, and rowboats, are exempt from the inspection, quarantine, and seal program.
  • Hand-launched boats with electric trolling motors, such as fishing kayaks, are also exempt.

All exempt watercraft must follow the “Clean, Drain, and Dry” guidelines.

Understanding the Legal Implications

These new boating regulations are implemented under the authority of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and California State Parks to protect state waters and infrastructure from invasive species. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in fines or other penalties.

Boaters should be aware of the following legal considerations:

  • California Penal Code Section 602: Addresses trespassing, which could apply to boaters who violate posted restrictions or enter closed areas.
  • California Fish and Game Code Section 2301: Makes it unlawful to import, transport, or possess live or dead prohibited species, including golden mussels.
  • Harbors and Navigation Code: Governs vessel operation and safety on California waterways, including regulations related to invasive species.

Clean, Drain, and Dry: Your Role in Prevention

Regardless of whether your boat is subject to the inspection and quarantine program, it is crucial to follow the “Clean, Drain, and Dry” guidelines to prevent the spread of golden mussels and other invasive species.

  • Clean: Inspect all watercraft and equipment, removing any visible mud, plants, fish, or animals.
  • Drain: Drain all water from the lower outboard unit, ballast, live-well, buckets, and any other water-containing devices. Collect any bilge water that contains petroleum products and dispose of it properly.
  • Dry: Allow your boat and equipment to dry thoroughly before launching into another body of water.

What to Do If You Suspect Golden Mussels

If you believe you have found golden mussels in Folsom Lake or any other California waterway, take the following steps:

  1. Document: Take photos of the suspected mussels, noting the location and date.
  2. Report: Notify the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Invasive Species Program by email at Invasives@wildlife.ca.gov or call (866) 440-9530.
  3. Cooperate: Follow any instructions provided by wildlife officials to help contain the spread of the mussels.

Staying Informed

Boating regulations and inspection protocols can change rapidly. Stay informed by:

  • Visiting the California State Parks website: parks.ca.gov/FolsomLakeGoldenMussels
  • Contacting Folsom Lake State Recreation Area: GFD.GoldenMussel@parks.ca.gov
  • Checking the California Division of Boating and Waterways website: dbw.parks.ca.gov/inspections

Conclusion

The boating regulations at Folsom Lake and Lake Clementine are a necessary response to the threat posed by golden mussels. While these measures may cause inconvenience, they are essential to protect California’s waterways, infrastructure, and recreational opportunities. By understanding the regulations, following the “Clean, Drain, and Dry” guidelines, and staying informed, boaters can play a crucial role in preventing the spread of this invasive species.