Freshwater Mussel Monitoring

Westmoreland Park

Portland, OR

Monday, August 8, 2016 PDT

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Why survey for native freshwater mussels?

Freshwater mussels are among the most at-risk animals in the U.S. and Oregon is home to only a few species of native freshwater mussels. Mussels benefit streams and fish by improving water quality, they are food for a variety of mammals and birds, and mussel beds provide habitat for other stream inhabitants. Previous surveys by Xerces staff and volunteers have shown that Crystal Springs Creek supports large populations of native mussels.  

In 2013, volunteers helped find and relocate mussels prior to stream restoration in Crystal Springs Creek at Westmoreland Park. Surveys this year will be part of long-term monitoring to investigate mussel re-colonization in the restored reaches at Westmoreland Park to measure the effects of improved fish habitat on native mussels and invasive Asian clams.

Who can help? 

No prior experience is required. Prepare for a day in the water and wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet and mucky or bring hip or chest waders if you have them. The sediment is often over a foot deep in some areas of the stream, making movement in the stream somewhat difficult. Closed-toed shoes are suggested because of the possibility of sharp debris in the stream. Surveys are suitable for adults and older children, but due to deep water in some areas of the stream, minors must be accompanied by an adult.     

Please dress for the weather and bring plenty of water!    

What will the work involve?                                     

Volunteers will help survey for native mussels and collect data. Work will involve frequent bending motions. Participants will use underwater viewing scopes and other monitoring equipment to survey the stream bottom for mussels.

ABOUT THE XERCES SOCIETY

The Xerces Society is a nonprofit organization that protects wildlife through the conservation of invertebrates and their habitat. For over forty years, the Society has been at the forefront of invertebrate protection worldwide, harnessing the knowledge of scientists and the enthusiasm of citizens to implement conservation programs. For information about the Xerces Society, visit: http://www.xerces.org/.

ABOUT THE CRYSTAL SPRINGS PARTNERSHIP

The Crystal Springs Partnership is a group of community members, organizations, and City representatives who are working toward making the Crystal Springs Watershed a vibrant, healthy place for people and wildlife. The group is partnering local knowledge and agency expertise to develop a national model for urban watersheds. In particular, working toward ensuring that Crystal Springs Creek will have healthy urban salmon through community collaboration around education, advocacy, and restoration. For information about the Crystal Springs Partnership, visit:  http://www.crystalspringspdx.org/.