AIS Webinar Series: How low can we go? Zebra mussel control with low-dose copper treatments
Thursday, July 17, 1–2 p.m
Learn more and register for the webinar.
Researchers from the US Geological Survey, in partnership with Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center, have been investigating alternative strategies for invasive mussel population control. The research has included two bay-wide copper treatments in Lake Minnetonka with the goal to reduce settlement of larval mussels thereby reducing recruitment and total population. The research team used a commercially available copper product at concentrations around 10% of the labelled maximum dose. Two novel approaches were used to apply the product: 1) an epilimnion application of the entire bay and 2) a near-shore, littoral treatment. Both treatments included multi-year monitoring of both zebra mussel population and non-target communities to inform potential tradeoffs when it comes to future treatments. Additionally, USGS researchers investigated seasonal trends of copper sensitivity in zebra mussels to identify ideal treatment periods. Apart from the experimental aspects, these projects also included public engagement and involvement in part to better gauge stakeholder interests regarding invasive mussel control objectives. The findings highlight potential methods for invasive mussel control alternative to the popular “eradication or bust” strategies.
Speakers
Matthew Barbour is a biologist for the US Geological Survey at the Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin. His research has focused on the development and refinement of invasive mussel control tools, techniques, and procedures. His research has covered a large geographical area from the Great Lakes to the Colorado River and various environments from whole waterbodies to microcosms to hydropower facilities. Matthew’s research interests include investigating the application of integrated pest management to the dreissenid mussel problem within a functional eradication framework. Outside of work, he is the Cubmaster for his children’s Cub Scout Pack, serves as Commander of his VFW Post, and enjoys traveling with his family and tinkering in his garage.
We encourage you to join the webinar about 5 minutes early to ensure your links work properly and that you do not have any technical or audio issues.
