Zebra mussel pilot project? What do you think?

[Rick]

Finally, now we're talking publicly about attacking the source of the problem rather than the after-effects of the problem.

Starts with Ruth Lake in Crow Wing County The Department of Natural Resources is initiating pilot projects aimed at treating recently discovered, small infestations of zebra mussels on Minnesota lakes.

The Ruth Lake infestation was confirmed in July, after a young snorkeler found a single zebra mussel under a rock. Subsequent surveys of the lake revealed about two dozen zebra mussels, all in the same small area. The pilot project treatment, using the pesticide Earth Tec QZ in a 3.4-acre section of the lake, will be paid for by the Ruth Lake Improvement Association.

Pilot projects are a new process designed by the DNR and the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC) at the University of Minnesota. They provide opportunities to test a specific, rapid protocol for treatment of zebra mussel infestations.

Discuss below - to view set the hook here.

It's great to see the University of Minnesota using science and technology and testing to see if it will eradicate these AIS issues. Testing and a focus on what kills these pests is where our money and focus should be spent. Spending our resources on rules and regulations that discourage anglers should be a distant second choice, especially when all it really does is delay the spread of these exotic species.

What are your thoughts on this?

Edited October 12, 2015 by Rick