1. Golden Mussel Prevention Efforts Accelerating — Board Approves ~$80K Vulnerability Assessment The Board approved a contract with Dudek (just under $80,000) to conduct a comprehensive vulnerability assessment of Kern Delta's canal system against golden mussel infestation. This study will analyze water characteristics (including calcium content critical to mussel shell development), identify optimal locations for preventative chemical treatment, and test whether mussels are present in the system. Kern Delta is taking a proactive, preventative approach — unlike neighboring districts such as North Kern, which is already spending upward of $5 million on mitigation treatments. Staff also noted that all golden mussel-related costs will be tracked in a separate ledger in anticipation of potential state/federal reimbursement. Growers should be aware that a separate ag-focused "Clean Drain Dry" campaign is being developed — if you move pumps or equipment between districts, decontamination practices will be expected.
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