Zebra mussels (ZM) are an invasive species infesting water supplies across the US. The project goals were to ascertain the viability of ZM in the Quabbin and other water supplies in MA; to analyze the effects of ZM infestation on the environment and infrastructure of the water supplies; to consider economic impact of infestation; and to review laws limiting the spread of invasive species. Study shows that ZM require specific habitat conditions including pH, alkalinity, and calcium. Study revealed that most surface water supplies in MA, including the Quabbin, have low vulnerability towards mussel infestation. Costs for removal of mussels from infested regions will be minimal. Legislation should focus on public education and restrictions to reduce the spread of the mussels.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Deisadze, Lucas

Subject

• Environment
• Water
• Infrastructure
• Sustainability

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-050512-102809

Keyword

• Introduced organisms
• Water resources development
• Community development

Advisor

• Vernon-Gerstenfeld, Susan
• Ault, Holly Keyes

Year

• 2012

Date created

• 2012-05-05

Location

• Worcester

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright

Last modified

• 2021-02-02