COHASSET — The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Bass Lake near Cohasset, the agency announced Monday, Sept. 22.
Itasca County Soil and Water Conservation District invasive species staff contacted the DNR after finding adult zebra mussels attached to settlement samplers on the north and south shores of the lake.
Settlement samplers are solid surfaces temporarily placed in the water that can be checked regularly for attached zebra mussels.
SWCD staff deployed the samplers as part of their prevention and early detection efforts.
DNR invasive species staff confirmed the presence of zebra mussels at multiple other locations in Bass Lake.
The agency said 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.
- Dry docks, lifts and rafts for 21 days before moving them from one waterbody to another.
These additional steps reduce the risk of spreading aquatic invasive species:
- Decontaminate watercraft and equipment – find free stations on the courtesy decontamination page of the DNR website.
- Spray watercraft and equipment with high-pressure water or rinse with water if high-pressure water is not available.
- Dry watercraft and equipment for at least five days before using in another waterbody.
If you think you've found an aquatic invasive species that's not already known to be in a waterbody, contact the DNR.
