Aquatic Invasive Species

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) threaten the ecological health and operational reliability of freshwater systems.

ESA partners with public agencies, utilities, and water managers to deliver science‑driven programs that prevent introductions, detect emerging threats, and manage established populations. Our AIS services help clients maintain functional waterways and avoid costly disruptions by integrating biology, hydrology, and environmental planning into system‑specific management strategies. We can assist with the following:

Freshwater Mussel Risk Assessments: Invasive mussels, particularly zebra, quagga, and golden mussels, create operational challenges for hydropower, drinking water systems, hatcheries, and irrigation networks. ESA works with our partners to conduct systemwide and asset‑level evaluations to assess environmental suitability, introduction pathways, and vulnerability of critical infrastructure.

Early Detection Monitoring: ESA designs and implements monitoring programs that combine plankton net tows, adult and juvenile surveys, and eDNA analysis to provide high‑confidence detection across mussel life stages.

Invasive Aquatic Plant Management: We manage high‑priority aquatic plants such as flowering rush, Eurasian watermilfoil, and curlyleaf pondweed through integrated on‑the‑water and aerial surveys, treatment planning, and long‑term effectiveness monitoring.

Our Expertise Covers:

• Aquatic habitat surveys
• Integrated aquatic vegetation management plans
• Aquatic plant identification and mapping
• Water quality monitoring
• Water quality QA/QC
• Data management