Zebra mussels found in Smith Lake, connected lakes in Crow Wing County

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed zebra mussels in Smith Lake, located near Garrison, as well as Barbour and Holt lakes and Seguchi Creek, which are connected to Smith Lake in Crow Wing County.

The DNR received a report of zebra mussels attached to kayaks used in Smith Lake, according to an update from the agency on Monday. A DNR invasive species specialist found numerous quarter-inch zebra mussels in three areas of the lake.

Minnesota law requires boaters and anglers to do the following when using lakes in the state:

• Clean 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.

Some invasive species are small and difficult to see at the access. To remove or kill them, the DNR asks to take one or more of the following precautions before moving to another body of water:

• Spray with high-pressure water.
• Rinse with very hot water (120 degrees or at least two minutes or 140 degrees for at least 10 seconds).
• Dry for at least five days.

Zebra mussels can compete with native species for food and habitat, cut the feet of swimmers, reduce the performance of boat motors and cause expensive damage to water intake pipes. Anyone who suspects a new infestation of an aquatic invasive plant or animal should note the exact location, take a photo or keep the specimen and contact a DNR aquatic invasive species specialist.

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