DNR finds zebra mussel larvae in several St. Louis County lakes

ST. LOUIS COUNTY — The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources states water sample analysis of several St. Louis County lakes found measurable amounts of zebra mussel larvae.

The presence of larvae — known as veligers — in Lake Vermilion, Lake Kabetogama, Crane Lake and Namakan Lake indicates a reproducing adult population of the aquatic invasive species, even though no adult zebra mussels have yet been confirmed.

"It is not unusual for large lakes especially to have confirmed veligers without confirmation of adult zebra mussels," the DNR stated in its announcement. "For example, the DNR confirmed zebra mussel veligers in Rainy Lake in St. Louis County in 2021 but has not confirmed adult zebra mussels there.

The water sampling was part of a long-range monitoring project.

Whether 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 and keeping them out during transport
• Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash

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

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

More information is available on the aquatic invasive species page of the DNR website.