Fixing Shell and Mussel Problems in Irrigation Systems

Oct 20
3 min read

How WaterSOLV™ proved to be a sustainable solution for shells, mussels, snails, and more

On August 27, 2025, agronomy experts Todd Eden, Todd Draffen, and Vernon Jones sat down for an in-depth discussion about one of the most persistent challenges facing golf course superintendents in Florida, Arizona, and beyond; mussels, shells, and biofilm in irrigation systems and snails on soils and vegetation.

Understanding the Problem

Todd Draffen, Director of Agronomy at Old Collier Golf Club in Naples, FL, shared his two-decade battle with shell accumulation in lakes, pumps, and irrigation lines. Over the years, he and his team tried nearly every conventional treatment — chlorine, acids, copper sulfate, and even mechanical flushing — with limited success. The issue worsened after Hurricane Ian (2022), when saltwater intrusion changed the chemistry of local lakes, introducing new shell species such as the dark false mussel, a brackish-water relative of the zebra mussel.

Searching for a Sustainable Fix

Eden and his team at HCT have been exploring chemical and biological approaches that go beyond quick “shock” treatments. By investigating the chemistry behind shell formation, they discovered that altering the ionic composition of water — rather than simply killing existing shells — prevents new ones from forming. This involves balancing pH, introducing oxidizers like hydrogen peroxide, and using acids to break down biofilm layers that otherwise protect shells from treatment.

Draffen reported noticeable progress after several months using Eden’s WaterSOLV™ Treatment Program. While not entirely shell-free yet, his course has seen fewer clogged sprinkler heads and better soil moisture consistency. He also noted that turf health and infiltration have improved, suggesting the program’s benefits extend beyond shell control.

The Science Behind the Solution

Eden explained that the strategy focuses on three key principles:

Stop the shell development before it is formed– Modify salts and minerals so embryos can’t build calcium shells.
Maintain aerobic conditions – Use oxidizing agents and continuous chemical oxygenation from the additive, to fight anoxicity, septicism, organic toxins, that create muck and black layers in soil, and that feed embryos that create shells.
Enhance water and soil health naturally – Acidify and sequester soluble and excess soil salts (fertilizers, toxins and bio-wastes) so they remain soluble and available to plants rather than accumulating in the soil.

They also discussed the potential of chelated copper — a more stable, plant-friendly form of copper — as a supplement to HCT WaterSOLV™ Curative, to form ionic copper, improving it effectiveness on disease, pest pressure, black layer, iron slime and mollusk growth and development.

Looking Ahead

The group emphasized that real progress takes time. Regular “charging” of irrigation lines, even during rainy periods, ensures the system stays active and the treatment continues working. With continued adjustments, Draffen hopes to see full resolution in the coming months.

Eden closed the meeting by underscoring their shared goal: helping golf course teams overcome environmental and technical challenges while improving turf sustainability while reducing expenses.

Key Takeaways

Persistent "shell and biofilm" problems in irrigation systems can’t be solved by current conventional methods. The WaterSOLV™ System is the only holistic, chemistry-driven approach that improves both water and soil health, oil physical properties and vegetation vitality, proving to be a more effective and sustainable path forward for golf course superintendents.

From turf to wells to agriculture, WaterSOLV™ is challenging conventional water and soil treatment practices and solving problems previously thought to be manageable at best.

HCT's purpose and privilege is providing sustainable and cost effective solutions to the chronic problems that plague soil health in the world of water and agronomy. We consistently reduce water demand 15% and increase crop yields 18% and more. When you treat water ‘well’ with Water SOLV™ you increase efficiency, decrease costs, increase yield, improve pore space and add oxygen chemically. We can show you how to restore soil infiltration and soil operability just by treating your water and for substantially less than you're spending now.