The district's initial 21-day copper-based chemical treatment for golden mussels is proving effective, with approximately 90% mortality observed in mussel bags pulled from canals. Mussel shells are disintegrating at higher copper concentrations. The board discussed staff's plan to continue Bluetech through October and transitioning to in-house operations afterward (no vote recorded; staff indicated no motion was needed to proceed). After October, district staff will manage future treatments in-house, potentially avoiding over $450,000 in Bluetech service costs under one estimate/scenario. The estimated total startup cost is up to $5 million, with roughly $2 million identified in current AP/financials for chemicals and outside services.
Already have an account? Sign In
