(KNSI) — Another lake in central Minnesota is dealing with a zebra mussel report.
On July 8th, a fishing guide snagged an adult zebra mussel on a hook while fishing on Lake Koronis near Paynesville. The person reported it to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and invasive species specialists conducted a search of the area but found nothing. A follow-up search revealed a juvenile zebra mussel near the Lake Koronis Regional Park public water access.
Zebra mussels can compete with native species for food and habitat, cut swimmers’ feet, reduce the performance of boat motors, and cause expensive damage to water intake pipes.
Starry stonewort was first discovered in Lake Koronis near Paynesville in 2015. Starry stonewort is a grass-like form of algae that can interfere with recreational uses of water. It forms dense mats on the surface that can choke off native vegetation and disrupt a lake’s ecosystem.
Whether or not a lake has any invasive species, Minnesota law requires people to clean watercraft, trailers, and equipment to remove aquatic plants and prohibited invasive species. Drain all water and leave drain plugs out during transport. Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash. Never release bait, plants, or aquarium pets into Minnesota waters and dry docks, lifts, and rafts for 21 days before moving them from one water body to another.
Additional steps watercraft users can take to reduce the risk of spreading aquatic invasive species include decontaminating watercraft and equipment by spraying them with high-pressure water or rinse with hot water. Experts recommend 120 degrees for at least two minutes or 140 degrees for at least 10 seconds. Drying watercraft and equipment for at least five days before using them in another water body can help.
July 28th, the DNR says zebra mussels were found on Limestone Lake in Wright County.
People should contact a Minnesota DNR aquatic invasive species specialist if they think they have found zebra mussels or any other invasive species.
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