Minnesota DNR confirms zebra mussel infestation in Christmas Lake

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) confirmed last week that even after aggressive treatment to address a zebra mussel infestation earlier in the year, the invasive species has established a colony in Christmas Lake in Shorewood, Minnesota.

“These findings demonstrate the challenges of monitoring and treating zebra mussels,” DNR Invasive Species Specialist Keegan Lund said. “None of these newly discovered zebra mussels were found in the area of Christmas Lake that was treated earlier this year, but most of those we found were juveniles. That tells us reproduction has occurred and this population is established.”

The DNR is working with local organizations and the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center to assess the situation and determine how it an update rapid response treatments and pilot programs to prevent future infestations. One preventative measure the DNR highlighted is inspecting aquatic equipment and keeping docks and lifts dry for 21 days before moving them into a different body of water, which is required by state law.

“There is a common misconception that zebra mussels ‘are everywhere’ and that their spread is inevitable,” Lund said. “The reality is, zebra mussels have been confirmed in less than 2 percent of Minnesota lakes, and more Minnesotans than ever before know and follow invasive species laws. People spread zebra mussels, and people can prevent the spread.”