Biological Surveys

Freshwater Mussel Surveys | Wildlife Surveys | Plant Surveys

Freshwater Mussel Surveys

Freshwater mussels play important roles in freshwater ecosystems. They are excellent indicators of water quality, act to improve water quality by filtering out particulate matter, and are an important food source for wildlife. North America has more freshwater mussel species than any other continent (nearly 300) and today, due to degraded habitat and water quality, almost half of these are considered Threatened or Endangered. Due to protective measures specified in the Federal Endangered Species Act, any human activity that impacts suitable habitat for protected mussel species, could require a freshwater mussel survey.

The Catena Group, Inc. has extensive experience in conducting freshwater mussel surveys for federal, state, and municipal governments as well as clients in the private sector. Our services include surveys for determination of suitable habitat, presence or absence, mussel diversity, and density. We are also experienced in the customized design of mussel relocation projects and subsequent monitoring programs. Through our commitment to scientifically sound protocols and report writing, our personnel have gained the respect of the scientific community and regulatory agencies involved in the protection of these ecologically important mollusks. The Catena Group has the state and federal permits authorizing the collection of all Threatened and Endangered mussel species in North Carolina and the majority of Virginia, South Carolina, and Georgia.