Invasive Species Zebra Mussels Found in Lake Minnewashta

An invasive species has been found in another Minnesota lake.

Invasive species specialists with the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources have confirmed zebra mussels in Lake Minnewashta, a popular recreational lake near Lake Minnetonka.

County officials are closing the county access, installing a curtain around the affected area, and routing boaters to a second access nearby while treatment options are pursued.

Zebra mussels were found in less than three-quarters of an acre of the 29-acre main channel of the lake. Specialists said the zebra mussels found were young and in an isolated area. Treatment options are being explored.

"There is a common misconception that zebra mussels ‘are everywhere’ and that their spread is inevitable. The reality is, zebra mussels have been confirmed in less than two percent of Minnesota lakes, and more Minnesotans than ever before know and follow invasive species laws," said DNR Invasive Species Unit supervisor Heidi Wolf in a statement.

"People spread zebra mussels, and people can prevent the spread."

This new infestation is a reminder to boaters and anglers to follow Minnesota laws to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species:

• Clean aquatic plants and animals from watercraft, trailers and equipment.
• Drain all water by removing drain plugs and keep drain plugs out while transporting watercraft.
• Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.

For more information on aquatic invasive species prevention and how to report a suspected infestation, visit the aquatic invasive species page.

Image: andres musta via Flickr /Creative Commons