Yolo County officials unanimously approve local emergency for invasive golden mussels

Yolo County officials on Tuesday announced a local emergency because of the invasive golden mussel.

The species reproduces quickly and attaches to any surface, which could lead to the clogging of critical water infrastructure such as water pipes and pumps. Golden mussels could also harm waterways and ecosystems, as well as affect the food fish that, wildlife experts warn.

After Tuesday's unanimous decision, Yolo has become the latest county in Northern California to take action in response to the species after detecting it in the Port of West Sacramento on June 27.

“Our hope is that by declaring an emergency in response to this, that we can access funding and other resources that may be available to address this invasive species,” said Will Arnold, a Yolo County spokesperson.

After Tuesday's unanimous decision, Yolo has become the latest county in Northern California to take action in response to the species after detecting it in the Port of West Sacramento on June 27.

“Our hope is that by declaring an emergency in response to this, that we can access funding and other resources that may be available to address this invasive species,” said Will Arnold, a Yolo County spokesperson.

Sacramento County, in June of this year, declared a local emergency for the mussels.

In April, San Joaquin County also declared a local emergency, but the county launched a task force in October 2025 to stop the spread. Golden mussels were first discovered in the Port of Stockton in November 2024. Stockton also has its own local emergency declaration.