Streams without mussels are at a serious disadvantage. Mussels provide valuable natural benefits, such as fortifying stream beds against erosion, and providing habitat and food for other plants and animals. Additionally, a single mussel can filter/clean up to 20 gallons of water per day. Imagine a healthy population of these filter-feeding powerhouses doing the work of a manmade water treatment plant!
The Partnership for the Delaware Estuary (PDE) needs your help locating streams with freshwater mussels, as well as those with no mussels at all. Volunteers play an important role in helping scientists monitor the health and locations of these extremely threatened animals (the most endangered animal in the US!) and identify streams in need of freshwater mussel restoration.
