Mussels

US Army Corps of Engineers | Engineer Research and Development Center | Environmental Laboratory | Search EL

This web page was developed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) District, St. Paul and the Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC), Vicksburg to assist specialists and non-specialists with planning, design, and implementation of freshwater mussel surveys in relation to activities permitted by the USACE. The webpage and links provide information on:

Economic, ecological and aesthetic value of mussels

Biology and ecology of mussels

Study design

Safe use of divers to collect mussels

Equipment needed

Methods to collect mussels

Identification of mussels

Techniques for the safe handling of mussels

The Endangered Species Act as it pertains to mussels

State listed species

Impacts of dredging, water level manipulation, etc., on freshwater mussels

Advice on survey protocols is tailored to the varying needs of permit applicants. Obviously small, relatively unobtrusive activities deserve less scrutiny and fiscal outlay than large, disruptive activities. This guidance encourages maximum use of existing information and suggests appropriate levels of intensity and extensiveness for reconnaissance and survey efforts. It is intended to be used by both regulatory personnel and contractors working with permit applicants to determine if and what type of surveys may be needed and includes information on typical data analysis and reporting procedures.