GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Grand Forks is looking to step up efforts to keep zebra mussels from plugging underwater intake pipes in the Red River.
The mussels were first detected in the river system in 2015 and have been growing ever since. The microscopic larvae attach to rocks, docks, boats, bridges and pipes. The accumulation of mussels can damage underwater infrastructure.
Since 2020, the city has utilized a water treatment product to help eradicate zebra mussels on the suction side of the intake pipes leading to the water treatment plant. The city council is looking to spend $97,500 dollars to help design a more permanent chemical feed system. Water Works Director Melanie Parvey says the project itself will likely cost another $350,000 dollars.
The council gave preliminary approval to the plan last week. Final action was expected Monday.
