The chance for zebra mussels to become established and abundant in specific areas can sometimes be inferred from geography, water quality, and temperature. Zebra mussels may never become established in some parts of the United States. For large areas of this country, their status cannot be readily predicted. Monitoring the dispersal and abundance patterns of the species may be prudent in these areas if periodic and unexpected loss of water supply can not be tolerated.
Monitoring can be used to determine the time frame or urgency for treatment. It also provides feedback for treatment effectiveness and provides information to "fine tune" the treatment strategy needed for different facility operating conditions and seasons of the year.