The workshop hosted by the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission and other agencies focused on identifying research priorities to manage dreissenid mussels in the western United States, aligned with the Quagga and Zebra Mussel Action Plan (QZAP) 2.0. During the February 2022 event, 40 experts discussed five thematic areas: early detection monitoring, prevention and containment, control and management, rapid response, and dreissenid mussel biology. Key research priorities identified included improving cost-effective monitoring methods, understanding introduction pathways, refining control techniques, and integrating Indigenous perspectives into decision-making processes. This comprehensive approach aims to prevent the establishment and spread of these invasive mussels, crucial for protecting ecological integrity and water infrastructure. These priorities inform funding opportunities for future research by federal agencies and state/local programs, emphasizing the need for evidence-based strategies to mitigate the ecological and economic impacts of dreissenid mussel infestations.

The document pertains to the Quagga Zebra Mussel Action Plan (QZAP), focusing on addressing the issue of invasive species within the designated boundaries of the Western Regional Panel in the United States. The initiative outlines strategies to manage and mitigate the impacts of these species, which negatively affect local ecosystems, economies, and infrastructure. The plan emphasizes collaboration among states and stakeholders, aiming to establish best practices and standardized protocols for monitoring and controlling the spread of invasive species. The geographic scope excludes Canada and Mexico and highlights the importance of regional cooperation and research in combating this environmental challenge. Overall, QZAP serves as a framework for state and local agencies to coordinate efforts and allocate resources effectively to protect natural resources and enhance ecological resilience.