OutdoorMN News - Zebra mussels confirmed in Lake Alexander in Morrison County

[Rick]

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed zebra mussels in Lake Alexander in Morrison County. 

DNR divers found two adult zebra mussels, about one-half inch in length, near Soldiers Island on the west side of the lake, and two more zebra mussels of the same size at the east boat access. Reports of zebra mussels in 2018 in another part of the lake could not be substantiated, despite numerous searches in 2018 and 2019.

Whether or not a lake is listed as infested, Minnesota law requires boaters and anglers to:

• Clean watercraft and trailers of aquatic plants and prohibited invasive species.
• Drain all water by removing drain plugs and keeping them out during transport.
• Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.

Some invasive species are small and difficult to see at the access. To remove or kill them, take one or more of the following precautions before moving to another waterbody:

• Spray with high-pressure water.
• Rinse with very hot water (120 degrees for at least two minutes or 140 degrees for at least 10 seconds).
• Dry for at least five days.

Zebra mussels can compete with native species for food and habitat, cut the feet of swimmers, reduce the performance of boat motors, and cause damage to water intake pipes.

People should contact an area DNR aquatic invasive species specialist if they think they have found zebra mussels or any other invasive species that has not already been confirmed in a lake.

More information is available at mndnr.gov/ais.

Discuss below - to view set the hook here.