EBMUD Closes Boat Launches in 2025 to Stop Spread of Golden Mussel
OAKLAND, Calif. – April 2025 — The East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) has announced the continued closure of all boat launches to private vessels for the 2025 season. This proactive measure aims to stop the spread of the invasive golden mussel, recently discovered in Northern California, and protect the East Bay’s public water system and sensitive aquatic environments.
Invasive Golden Mussel Now Threatens California Waters
In October 2024, the golden mussel—previously unknown in North America—was identified for the first time in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. This discovery prompted swift action from EBMUD, which serves 1.4 million customers in the East Bay.
The golden mussel is an aggressive invasive species capable of multiplying rapidly, clogging water infrastructure, and disrupting native ecosystems. In 2009, EBMUD’s risk analysis had already determined that its reservoirs were vulnerable to such an infestation.
If golden mussels were to invade EBMUD reservoirs or water systems, the result could be devastating:
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Expensive and labor-intensive removal efforts
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Damage to pipes, pumps, and treatment infrastructure
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Possible restrictions on recreational use
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Permanent harm to native aquatic life
Preventing Infestation: Why Boat Launch Closures Matter
Private watercraft are one of the primary vectors for golden mussel spread, often carrying larvae undetected on hulls or in bilge water. While decontamination stations and quarantine protocols reduce risk, they cannot eliminate it completely.
By keeping launches closed, EBMUD minimizes the risk of introduction while conducting further research and prevention planning.
“This decision eliminates one of the primary ways that mussels spread, helping EBMUD keep its commitment to protect the environment and the public water system on behalf of its 1.4 million customers in the East Bay.”
Closure Locations and What’s Still Allowed
The closure affects all EBMUD reservoir recreation areas with boat launches:
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Pardee Reservoir
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Camanche Reservoir North and South (Sierra Foothills)
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San Pablo Reservoir (East Bay)
Applies to:
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Private boats
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Kayaks
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Paddleboards
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Other personal watercraft
Exemptions:
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Boats with permanent slips at Camanche that were in the water or on-site in dry storage when launches closed in November 2024
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Life vests (allowed)
Ongoing Collaboration with Scientists and Agencies
EBMUD is working closely with state and federal agencies, academic institutions, and other California water managers to:
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Monitor golden mussel spread
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Test inspection and decontamination protocols
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Prepare long-term response plans
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Track reservoir boat traffic and activity patterns
This scientific and collaborative approach ensures that EBMUD is prepared should the mussels be introduced, while also refining best practices in real-time.
Recreation Continues: Fishing, Hiking, Events and More
EBMUD remains committed to providing access to the natural beauty of its reservoirs through alternative recreational opportunities:
Shoreline fishing Boat rentals Picnicking Birdwatching Hiking and nature walks
Popular events such as Kids Free Fishing Day and the Spring Derby at Camanche will continue as scheduled in April 2025, offering fun and safe ways for families and anglers to enjoy the outdoors.
Recreation is managed by ExplorUS on behalf of EBMUD. To modify or cancel reservations, contact:
pardeecamping@goexplorus.com
camping@golakecamanche.com
More Resources and Media Access
Photos and B-roll available for download, including:
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Boat launch closure signs
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Scenic views of EBMUD reservoirs
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Shoreline fishing scenes
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Aerial drone shots
Read more: EBMUD takes steps to prevent golden mussel from infesting public water supply
The East Bay Municipal Utility District has a proud history of providing high-quality drinking water for 1.4 million customers in Alameda and Contra Costa counties. EBMUD’s wastewater system serves 740,000 customers and helps protect the ecosystem of San Francisco Bay. EBMUD is a not-for-profit public agency established in 1923.
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