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    The Anderson Dam Tunnel Project contractor installs one of two 11-foot-diameter fixed-cone valves in the diversion outlet structure. Water from the reservoir will be released through these large-diameter valves during diversion operations.
    The Anderson Dam Tunnel Project contractor installs one of two 11-foot-diameter fixed-cone valves in the diversion outlet structure. Water from the reservoir will be released through these large-diameter valves during diversion operations.
    May 28, 2026
    Reliable water starts with smart investments

    Santa Clara County’s water system is aging, and major upgrades are underway across the region to prepare for future droughts, climate challenges, and growing water needs.

    Read More
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    Close-up of the invasive golden mussel. Photo by Marcela Uliano da Silva
    Close-up of the invasive golden mussel. Photo by Marcela Uliano da Silva
    May 27, 2026
    As boating season kicks off, help protect our waters from golden mussels

    By Nai Hsueh, Director, Valley Water

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    Volunteers filled several bags of trash at the cleanup along Stevens Creek.
    Volunteers filled several bags of trash at the cleanup along Stevens Creek.
    May 27, 2026
    Volunteers remove over 14,000 pounds of trash during National River Cleanup Day

    Valley Water and the Creek Connections Action Group coordinated a countywide volunteer effort to remove litter and debris from creeks and rivers as part of this year’s National River Cleanup event. The effort highlights a shared commitment to protecting local waterways, supporting healthy ecosystems, and preventing trash from reaching the San Francisco and Monterey bays.

    This year’s cleanup efforts in Santa Clara County saw an incredible turnout:

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Golden Mussel Prevention in Santa Clara County

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Protect Our Reservoirs. Protect Our Water. Protect Our Community

Golden mussels are an invasive species spreading across parts of California - and they pose a serious threat to Santa Clara County's reservoirs, water supply, and recreation. Together, we can keep them out.

Protect Our Reservoirs

What are Golden Mussels?

Golden mussels are freshwater mussels that attach to boats, trailers, docks and water infrastructure. They reproduce rapidly and spread easily between waterbodies on boats and gear. Once established, they are very difficult to control.

Why They're a Threat?

Why They are a Threat?

How can you help?

Stopping golden mussels starts with a simple habit every boater and angler can follow.

Everyone who visits local waters:

  • Boaters (power, limited power, electric, non‑motorized)
  • Kayakers, paddleboarders, and canoe users
  • Anglers and float‑tube users
  • Rowing clubs and water recreation groups
  • Marina operators, HOAs, and fishing clubs
  • If your gear touches the water, you play a role in prevention.

 

Santa Clara County’s reservoirs support fishing, boating, wildlife, and drinking water. Help protect:

  • Calero Reservoir – Year‑round boating & fishing
  • Coyote Reservoir – Seasonal boating & fishing
  • Stevens Creek Reservoir – Seasonal boating & fishing
  • Lexington Reservoir – Year-round boating & fishing 
  • Almaden, Guadalupe, Uvas, Chesbro, Vasona, Camden Ponds – Fishing

 

  • No golden mussels detected in any Santa Clara County reservoirs.
  • Good News - but prevention is critical.
  • Golden mussels have been detected at San Luis Reservoir and in the Delta. With increased movement of boats and gear, the risk of introduction is rising.

 

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Learn more
California State Park Boating and Waterways

Purchase a mandatory mussel-free sticker. Stay informed with real time reservoir status updates and statewide golden mussel detection maps. 

 

 

Learn more
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Get Involved
Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation

All watercraft will be subject to inspection. Be prepared for inspection by having your vessel CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY.

Get ready for inspection
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Every visit matters
California Department of Fish and Wildlife

We’re partnering with local organizations, marinas, fishing clubs, HOAs, and community groups to expand prevention outreach.

Sign Up for Updates
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What are Golden Mussels
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What are Golden Mussels
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What are Golden Mussels
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What are Golden Mussels
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What are Golden Mussels
Together, we can keep Santa Clara County mussel‑free.
What Are Golden Mussels?
Watch Now
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Golden Mussels in the water way
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Golden Mussels in the water way
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Golden Mussels in the water way
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Golden Mussels in the water way
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Golden Mussels in the water way
Together, we can keep Santa Clara County mussel‑free.
Golden Mussel Damage
Watch Now
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What can we do?
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What can we do?
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What can we do?
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What can we do?
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What can we do?
Together, we can keep Santa Clara County mussel‑free.
Stop The Spread
Watch Now
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What action?
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What action?
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What action?
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What action?
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What action?
Together, we can keep Santa Clara County mussel‑free.
What Can You Do
Watch Now
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Email Capture field for Golden Mussels

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