MUNICIPAL MUSSELS: AN INVESTIGATION OF THE MUTUAL BENEFITS OF FRESHWATER MUSSEL PRESENCE IN A MUNICIPAL WATER SUPPLY

Abstract

Freshwater mussels are a keystone group in lake ecosystems, including some surface water supply sources utilized by Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) Water Utility. My research aims to establish the value of ecosystem services provided by freshwater mussels to the water treatment process, including their potential to reduce water treatment costs by reducing the need for chemical and mechanical treatments. Experiments were conducted comparing metal concentrations over time in tanks containing freshwater mussels and those without. The results showed significant differences in metal concentrations associated with mussel filtration. Local lakes with mussels were also found to have significant differences in metal concentrations and other water parameters, higher water treatment costs, and overall higher water quality drinking water than those without mussels. These results highlight the impact of freshwater mussels on water quality and their potential application as biofilters in pre-treatment for tap water and will inform future decisions by CBRM Water Utility regarding policy, conservation, climate change adaptation, and water security. Freshwater mussels have the potential to mitigate water-related risks, making them a critical component in the effort to build a more resilient water system in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.