Zebra mussels discovered in Farm Island Lake in Aitkin County

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) on Thursday reported the presence of zebra mussels in Farm Island Lake, in Aitkin County.

According to the DNR, zebra mussels often compete with native species for food and habitat. They also cut the feet of swimmers, reduce the performance of boat motors and can cause damage to water intake pipes.

The DNR received a report from a boater on the lake who found a zebra mussel attached to the boat’s anchor.

The DNR asks the following of boaters, anglers and other lake visitors:

• Clean boats, other 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.

To ensure invasive species aren’t carried from one location to another, the DNR suggests:

• Spraying boats, other watercraft and trailers with high-pressure water,
• Rinsing with very hot water (120 degrees for at least two minutes or 140 degrees for at least 10 seconds),
• Drying for at least five days.

More information on aquatic invasive species can be found via the DNR’s website here.