DNR determines extent of Lake Minnetonka zebra mussel infestation

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DNR determines extent of Lake Minnetonka zebra mussel infestation; schedules two open house meetings
(Released August 16, 2010)


Zebra mussels, which were first discovered in Lake Minnetonka on July 27, are present in multiple locations in the lake, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) said following completion of an extensive shoreline survey.

The survey, conducted in partnership with Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) scientists and the Lake Minnetonka Association, found zebra mussels at 10 of 48 sites.

“The widespread distribution of young zebra mussels in the eastern half of Lake Minnetonka indicates that there is a breeding population that has been in the lake for at least one year,” said Luke Skinner, supervisor of DNR’s invasive species unit.

To help keep the public informed about the infestation, the DNR in collaboration with the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District and the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District, has scheduled two open house meetings. The meetings will allow residents and lake users to ask questions regarding potential impacts, regulations and actions that can be taken to protect boats and equipment, and to prevent the spread of zebra mussels.

OPEN HOUSE MEETINGS


Aug. 31, 7-9 p.m., Southshore Community Center in Shorewood.
Sept. 1, 7-9 p.m., Gillespie Center in Mound.
The DNR has also created a new web page specifically for the Lake Minnetonka zebra mussel infestation.

“This site will be the clearinghouse for everything we know about zebra mussels in Lake Minnetonka” said Skinner. “We’ll keep it up to date with the latest information including details of the upcoming open houses.”

Web users can see the latest survey data, find out about community meetings, and learn more about how to prevent the spread of zebra mussels and minimize their harmful effects. The site also lists contact information for the team of state and local partners addressing the issue.

Young (less than one-year old) zebra mussels were found in Gray’s Bay, Wayzata Bay, Robinson’s bay, St. Louis Bay, and the Lower Lake North portions of the lake including portions of Big Island.

No zebra mussels were found in the upper basin of Lake Minnetonka. Zebra mussels were also detected in Minnehaha Creek just below the dam at the outlet of Lake Minnetonka but no zebra mussels were detected downstream in Minnehaha Creek, Lake Nokomis or Lake Hiawatha by Minnehaha Creek Watershed District and Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board scientists.

The DNR has designated Lake Minnetonka, Minnehaha Creek and several lakes connected to the creek including Meadowbrook, Nokomis and Hiawatha, as infested waters. Although zebra mussels have not been found in any lakes or wetlands downstream of Lake Minnetonka, the designation is important in an effort to prevent the spread to new lakes and rivers.

By designating waters as infested, additional regulations apply including prohibiting bait harvest and requirement to drain all water when leaving infested waters, including bait buckets.

Heavy infestations of this nonnative species can interfere with recreation, damage boats and other equipment, and kill native mussel species and affect fish populations.

View map of final Lake Minnetonka zerba mussel survey.

View image of zebra mussels.