This section was developed using information and original text from the Zebra Mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) Control Handbook for Facility Operators.
Water jets with pressures between 27,600 and 68,900 kPa (Wong 1991) or 3000 psi (Claudi and Mackie 1994) are recommended for the removal of zebra mussels. Precautions should be taken to ensure correct operation of the equipment for safety purposes and to avoid removing material other than zebra mussels. Experimenting with the variety of hose configurations and nozzles that are available will assist in finding the most suitable tools for the job. It may also be advisable to adjust the pressure and volume of water to achieve the most desirable result. The standoff distance (mussel-infested surface to tip of water jet nozzle) is important to the efficient operation of the water jet method. The greater the standoff distance, the less effective the cutting action of the water.
Zebra mussels attach to surfaces by secreting adhesive threads from their byssal gland (for more information on byssal thread attachment, see the Life History and Biology section.) This glycoprotein adhesive forms a bond to the chosen substrate that cannot be dissolved effectively with acids or solvents. Since it is important to remove as much of the byssal thread and byssal thread pad as possible, it may be helpful to add abrasives to the water stream. Careful attention must be given to the amount of abrasive material added to the water stream because damage due to excessive erosion can occur.
Water jetting may be effectively performed under water or in a dewatered environment. Claudi and Mackie (1994) recommend the prompt cleaning of any dewatered surfaces and areas. If the mussels are allowed to die and putrefy, the smell will become unbearable for the workers.
Management and Control Contents