Golden Clam Discovery Raises Concerns for Lake Champlain Ecosystem
Whitehall, NY — October 22, 2024 – In a significant and alarming development for the Lake Champlain ecosystem, aquatic invasive species (AIS) volunteer Ashley Leemans identified the invasive golden clam (Corbicula fluminea) during a routine monitoring session at the South Bay Boat Launch. Leemans reported her finding promptly, and further analysis by state agencies confirmed the presence of this fast-reproducing mollusk, marking the first known sighting in Lake Champlain.
The golden clam, originally from the eastern Mediterranean and parts of Asia, has been documented in nearby regions since 2008. It poses serious risks to local ecosystems, native biodiversity, and the economic health of the area due to its potential to reproduce at alarming rates—up to 35,000 larvae per adult. This invasive species can outcompete native mussels, disrupt nutrient cycles, and contribute to harmful algae blooms, leading to oxygen depletion in water bodies.
Following the discovery, the Lake Champlain Rapid Response Task Force convened to strategize necessary interventions. The Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) are conducting assessments to determine the extent of the infestation, which could potentially increase the tally of known nonnative aquatic species in the lake to 52.
Ashley Leemans’ swift action underscores the critical role of community science volunteers in safeguarding Lake Champlain’s ecosystem. The Lake Champlain Committee (LCC) is actively recruiting for its 2025 Champlain Aquatic Invasive Monitoring Program (CHAMP), inviting volunteers to help monitor and identify invasive species.
For those interested in environmental stewardship, training and equipment will be provided to volunteers committed to protecting the lake. The LCC emphasizes the importance of citizen engagement in conservation efforts, particularly in watersheds vulnerable to invasive species, as boating traffic can facilitate their spread.
For more information on how to get involved with CHAMP, interested individuals can visit the LCC’s website.
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