The US spends over $1 billion annually dealing with the aftermath of zebra and quagga mussel invasion. Understanding the vector
dynamics, life history and how human behavior contribute to the continued spread of invasive dreissenid species can lead to cost
savings and help refine and optimize management strategies. Across the United States, lakes, rivers and reservoirs that were
once free of invasive dreissenid mussels now test positive for their presence. Through a collaborative effort with the US Bureau
of Reclamation, the St. Paul district and Texas State University, the Integrated Ecological Modeling Team of ERDC-EL is
developing a predictive modelling approach that quantifies the risk of dreissenid mussel dispersal and colonization across
multiple spatial scales within the Western US. This model can be applied across wide geographic ranges to help determine ways
to decrease the future risk of mussel spread. The model also presents a methodology for understanding regional patterns of
invasive species dispersal, which ultimately can inform management strategies throughout the US.
