Since their introduction into US waterways, Zebra Mussels (Dreissena polymorphae) have spread rapidly throughout the Great Lakes and Mississippi regions. These mussels have continued to colonize the intake pipes industrial water supplies and water distribution throughout
the affected areas. Their colonization has compromised plant safety and production efficiency, and steadily increased costs to water users.
The design of each plant water distribution system is unique. A comprehensive zebra mussel control strategy using the best available options must be considered in each situation. This paper discusses the successful use of one strategy (a quartenary ammonia-based molluscicide) in the battle against zebra mussels. The commercial life cycle of an industrial molluscicide began with initial toxicity screening in the laboratory. The evalution continued at plant sites through field trials and applications. Lessons learned from these experiences helped
direct our effort toward the development of a second generation program.
Keywords: Zebra mussel, molluscicide, intake structure, macrofouling, amine salt of endothall and quartenary ammonia compounds