MUSS-1 - Freshwater Mussel Research Standards

This protocol ensures compliance with Texas Parks and Wildlife Code Chapter 66 requirements for introducing fish, shellfish and aquatic plants into public waters. Permit holders are responsible for understanding and complying with all applicable federal, state and local regulations governing freshwater mussel research activities.

Current Version: 1.0 - Effective: November 21, 2025

Previous Versions: none

Protocol Requirements

Federal Coordination

• Condition MUSS-1.1
  For projects involving federally-listed threatened or endangered species, the permit holder shall obtain all required federal authorizations prior to survey or relocation activities, including but not limited to USFWS Section 10(a)(1)(A) permits where applicable.

Required Permits

• Condition MUSS-1.2
  The permit holder shall obtain a valid Permit to Introduce Fish, Shellfish or Aquatic Plants into Public Waters (INTRO) from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Inland Fisheries Division prior to relocating any freshwater mussels.

Field Compliance and Documentation

• Condition MUSS-1.3
  The permit holder shall maintain physical copies of current, valid INTRO authorizations and all federal authorizations at the project site during relocation activities and shall not relocate any freshwater mussels without these authorizations for the specific project location and activities.