Over the last four years representatives from private, state, and federal institutions have been coordinating efforts to conserve the mussel fauna of the St. Croix River. This river supports most of the mussel species that previously occurred in the upper Mississippi River.  Consequently the St. Croix River is one of the most important rivers in the region for conservation efforts of the Mississippian fauna. Some of the activities the team has worked on include coordinated studies on mussel relocation, and effects of sedimentary ammonia on mussels, presentations of research results at the St. Croix River Research Rendezvous, endangered species recovery plans, large scale zebra mussel reconnaissance, draft mussel community recovery plan, nutrient monitoring, and streamlined permitting program. Challenges the team faced include temporary loss of team coordinator, team participation of key parties, and meeting logistics to maximize member participation.  Practices that have been particularly effective for this group include selecting one agency to coordinate meeting logistics, broad participation to facilitate decision making, and patient and regular communication in support of team activities.