And that word is that most species are endangered. You should to be very careful about what you collect, and you're probably better off not collecting, in general. Not only can you find yourself in trouble with the law, but you may be imperiling already questionably sustainable populations.
Here are some articles about the subject, for those who are interested:
https://www.fws.gov/midwest/endangered/clams/mussels.html
https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/pubs/ja/ja_williams007.pdf
Species at Risk - Mussels: Over 70% Endangered
I know this probably comes off as preachy, but mollusks are near and dear to my heart, and I know very few people know of the plight of the North American mussel species. For all you know, there may be a species hanging out in your local creek, just waiting for you to champion its cause! :grin2:
Here are some articles about the subject, for those who are interested:
https://www.fws.gov/midwest/endangered/clams/mussels.html
https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/pubs/ja/ja_williams007.pdf
Species at Risk - Mussels: Over 70% Endangered
I know this probably comes off as preachy, but mollusks are near and dear to my heart, and I know very few people know of the plight of the North American mussel species. For all you know, there may be a species hanging out in your local creek, just waiting for you to champion its cause! :grin2: