Lake Whatcom Rapid Response Plan
Ready to respond if invasive mussels are found in Lake Whatcom
Although invasive freshwater mussels – specifically quagga, zebra, and golden mussels – have not been detected in Lake Whatcom, we are ready to act quickly if they ever are.
The Lake Whatcom Management Program, in collaboration with local, state, and tribal partners, has developed a well-coordinated Rapid Response Plan that minimizes the chance of mussels becoming established in Lake Whatcom, our community’s drinking water source. This plan was presented to Bellingham City Council for adoption on October 20, 2025.
Why this matters
Invasive freshwater mussels can cause widespread damage by:
- Clogging the pipes that bring water to the drinking water treatment plant, increasing treatment costs
- Damaging boats, docks, and other infrastructure
- Disrupting aquatic ecosystems
- Degrading water quality
- Limiting recreational access to the lake
What happens if mussels are found
If invasive mussels are detected in Lake Whatcom, the Rapid Response Plan ensures swift action within 48 hours. The response will be led by a trained incident command team, staffed by experts from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Lake Whatcom Management Program. Early actions include notifying the community and stakeholders, collecting data to assess the extent of the infestation, and taking immediate steps to prevent the mussels from spreading, such as closing nearby boat launches or beaches if needed.
These early actions are designed to buy time and guide the next phase of response, which includes identifying, choosing, and implementing the most effective mussel control option. Based on data collected, an advisory group of experts from local, state, tribal, regional, and federal agencies will help evaluate longer-term control strategies. These may include:
- Containment barriers that will keep the mussels confined to one area.
- Manual removal of mussels by trained divers.
- Specialized mats on the lake bottom to smother mussels.
- Targeted chemical treatments in controlled areas.
All response options will be carefully reviewed for their effectiveness, cost, ecological safety, and regulatory compliance.
Part of a larger prevention strategy
The Rapid Response Plan is a critical piece of our broader efforts to prevent and monitor aquatic invasives species through our robust Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Program. Together, these efforts help ensure we can continue to deliver clean, safe, and high-quality drinking water at a responsible cost while protecting the lake’s ecological health.
How you can help
Boaters play a vital role in protecting Lake Whatcom. Clean, drain, and dry your boat and gear every time your leave the water and make sure your boat is inspected and has a valid AIS permit before launching in Whatcom County lakes.
