Zebra Mussels Plague Sherbrooke adn Magog Water Systems, Costing Thousands
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The relentless spread of zebra mussels is forcing Quebec cities to spend heavily on infrastructure maintenance.
By Anya Petrova | SHERBROOKE – 2025/06/03 22:13:05
The municipalities of Sherbrooke and Magog are raising concerns about the escalating costs associated with managing an invasive species: the zebra mussel. These small but prolific creatures are causing notable problems for water treatment facilities.
According to Jean-Pierre Fortier, head of water management division in the city of Sherbrooke, the issue was first identified “a few years ago, we detected our zebra mold problem by cleaning one of the sieve. We discovered several molds taken in it, and we realized the magnitude of the situation.”
Zebra mussels attach themselves in large numbers to submerged infrastructure, leading to blockages in water intakes, pipes, and other essential equipment.
“We have a lot of water intakes for our drinking water in our bodies of water. If you have molds that happen, it could lead to costs around $ 100,000 to 200,000 per year, by water intake.It’s expensive,” explains David O’Connor, project manager at the Estrie Regional Environment Council.
Both Magog and Sherbrooke are grappling with the costly repercussions of this invasion. Despite employing different control methods, both cities continue to face substantial annual expenditures.
“It could lead to costs around $ 100,000 to 200,000 per year, by water intake. It’s expensive.”
Understanding the Zebra Mussel Threat
Zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) are small, freshwater bivalve mollusks native to Eastern Europe and Western Russia. They were introduced to North America in the 1980s via ballast water from transoceanic ships [1] and have since spread rapidly throughout the Great Lakes and connected waterways [2]. Their rapid reproduction and ability to attach to almost any surface make them a formidable invasive species.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary threats posed by zebra mussels?
Zebra mussels can clog water intake pipes, disrupt aquatic ecosystems by filtering out plankton, and attach to boats and other submerged structures, causing damage and increasing maintenance costs.
How can the spread of zebra mussels be prevented?
Preventative measures include cleaning and inspecting boats and equipment before moving them to different bodies of water, draining all water from boats and equipment, and educating the public about the risks of spreading invasive species.
What methods are used to control zebra mussel populations?
Control methods include chemical treatments (such as molluscicides),physical removal,and biological controls. The specific method used depends on the location,severity of the infestation,and potential impacts on the environment.
