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Current Status:

The Arkansas fatmucket mussel continues to be threatened by impoundments, channel alteration, gravel dredging, sedimentation, and water quality degradation.

Achievements:

A section 7 consultation with the Federal Highway Administration on a bridge project resulted in a no-jeopardy biological opinion, and a Fish and Wildlife Service recommendation to relocate the species from the site led to the successful removal of 44 individuals. One of the four remaining occupied streams was protected when a section 7 consultation with the Soil Conservation Service on a reservoir project that would have jeopardized the survival of this threatened mussel led to the proposal being dropped. In another case, a consultation with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on a hydropower project resulted in a no-jeopardy biological opinion.

Current Recovery Needs:

Known populations of the Arkansas fatmucket and its habitat will need protection. Additionally, restoration of historic habitat and reestablishment of the mussel in its historic range is needed. Research on the species' life history is needed, as well as an evaluation of threats posed by the spread of the exotic zebra mussel.

Section 6 Funding and Activities:

In FY 1991 and FY 1992, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission was provided $21,051 and $33,528, respectively, to conduct status surveys for all mussels that are listed and candidates for listing. These surveys are intended to identify important mussel resource areas in Arkansas.

Partnerships

Forest Service: This Federal agency provided funding for research of movement and survival of the Arkansas fatmucket.

Recovery Plan Status:

Plan approved 2/10/92.