This section contains a document published by the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center entitled “Zebra Mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) Control Handbook for Facility Operators, First Edition.” Some of the sections in this CD contain original text from this latter document, and these sections contain hyperlinks directly to the relevant paragraphs within this document.
Control strategies and methods for the following four facilities are also included in this section:
The purpose of this section is to break down control methods by looking at the various components of a particular facility. Under each component, the specific control methods have been broken down into preventive and reactive categories. Numerous methods have been, and are currently being used, to control zebra mussels. Given the nature of the strategy, one type may be more appropriate for a particular habitat or situation than another.
When examining the descriptions of the control strategies, keep in mind that all control strategies have advantages and disadvantages. The most effective control programs are developed with careful attention being given to existing physical habitat conditions, facility characteristics, and desired results.
Whatever the control strategy, extremely careful attention must be given before, during, and after implementation to ensure that there are a minimum of negative impacts upon the surrounding environment. (See the Environmental Impacts of Chemical Control section.) Particular attention must be given to any effluent water or system discharge that has been treated with chemical or thermal methods to avoid the release of contaminated water.