DNR: Zebra Mussel Larvae Found on Rainy Lake

(KNSI) – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says Zebra mussel larvae have been found on a famous lake on the Minnesota Candian border.

The DNR says the aquatic invasive species have been found on Rainy Lake near International Falls in St. Louis County. One-third of Rainy Lake is in Voyageurs National Park. The larvae were found in waters outside the park boundary.

Conservation officers say 80% of DNR water samples taken in July contained zebra mussel larvae, suggesting a reproducing zebra mussel population in Rainy Lake. These samples followed up on a July 2020 report of a single adult zebra mussel.

At that time, the DNR did not find zebra mussels in Rainy Lake, and none of the microscopic zebra mussel larvae were found in water samples.

The DNR has contacted the Canadian government, the National Park Service (NPS), and the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa about this zebra mussel confirmation.

The NPS says sampling did not show any veligers, the larger muscles that attach to docks and clog irrigation systems. A greater monitoring effort will be implemented to better understand how extensively zebra mussels may be spread in connected lakes.

Whether or not a lake has any invasive species, 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, keeping them out during transport, and disposing of unwanted bait in the trash.

Some invasive species are small and difficult to see at public accesses. 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 swimmers’ feet, reduce the performance of boat motors and cause expensive damage to water intake pipes.

Anyone who suspects a new infestation of an aquatic invasive plant or animal should note the exact location, take a photo or keep the specimen, and contact a Minnesota DNR aquatic invasive species specialist.

For more information on aquatic invasive species, click here.

___