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Boats Return to San Pablo Reservoir After Mussel Scare
9 Feb
Summary
- San Pablo Reservoir reopened to boats after a year-long closure.
- A 30-day quarantine rule is in effect for all returning boats.
- Invasive golden mussels threaten water infrastructure with clogging.
Following the discovery of invasive golden mussels near the Port of Stockton in late 2024, EBMUD implemented a year-long ban on boats in San Pablo Reservoir to protect its water infrastructure. The aggressive mussel poses a severe clogging threat to EBMUD's pipes. After observing various quarantine methods by other agencies over the past year, EBMUD has decided on a 30-day quarantine as the most effective solution.
As of Sunday, February 9, 2026, EBMUD has begun allowing boats back onto San Pablo Reservoir, initiating its inspection process. Boats must undergo inspection to be certified clean and dry, then be tethered to their trailers with sealed cables. After the 30-day quarantine period, they can enter and exit freely. However, if a boat visits another reservoir, it must undergo another 30-day inspection before returning to San Pablo. Kayaks can launch after inspection without quarantine.
EBMUD plans to open its larger reservoir, Lake Comanche, northeast of Stockton, in May 2026. While most boat owners appear to understand and accept the new restrictions, officials emphasize that a single mistake could lead to an infestation, as there is no effective way to eradicate the golden mussel once established.
