The state Department of Natural Resources reported that they have found a number of adult zebra mussels at two lakes in central Minnesota- the Lower Hay Lake and Cross Lake.
A reminder had been sent out to the locals and boaters to take extra precautions so as not to spread the invasive species.
The zebra mussels have been identified as an invasive type of mollusk that began thriving at the Great Lakes during the 1980s. This has been due to their hitching a free ride on ships that travel in the ocean.
Mika Duval, spokesman from agency, clarified that the presence of zebra mussels in the two lakes is not enough reason to believe that they can be found in the remaining 12 lakes in the chain. The chain has 14 lakes but these species will not spread out if everyone will work together to contain it.
Signs were put up as part of the awareness campaign at several public and private access points all over the Whitefish chain by the agency. Duval had even advised boaters and property owners to visit the DNR official site in order to find out more ways that can help in curbing aquatic based invasive species. The Whitefish Area Property Owners Association had also volunteered to help educate people and to provide inspectors who will check boats at the access points.
Zebra mussels have this special ability of attaching themselves on any type of hard surfaces. Apparently, they were found to have attached themselves into boat lifts, boats, and even fellow native mussels. Researchers are still trying to understand their behaviour and how their presence can greatly affect their habitat.
Incidentally, the zebra mussels were also found at the lakes surrounding the Brainerd area. These include Pelican Lake, Gull Lake, Rice Lake, and Ossawinnamakee Lake.
