DNR confirms zebra mussels in Becker, Hubbard County lakes

The Department of Natural Resources confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in two more Northern Minnesota lakes as boats were being removed for the season.

The invasive species was identified on boats that had been in Sauer Lake near Detroit Lakes and Eleventh Crow Wing Lake near Akeley.

At Sauer Lake, a property owner found the aquatic invasive species attached to a boat. A DNR invasive species specialist found the mussels at the public access, about 300 feet from the initial report.

At Eleventh Crow Wing Lake, a Hubbard County watercraft inspector found zebra mussels on a boat coming off the lake. DNR staff found more mussels at the public access there.

The end of the boating season is a good reminder to carefully check boats and trailers, docks and lifts, and all other water-related equipment for invasive species when removing them for seasonal storage.

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 water body 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 water body.

If you believe you have found zebra mussels or another invasive species new to a water body, you should contact a Minnesota DNR aquatic invasive species specialist.