From KSTP.com
Despite Treatments, More Zebra Mussels Found in Christmas Lake
Updated: 10/23/2015 10:24 AM
Created: 10/23/2015 9:29 AM KSTP.com
By: Cassie Hart
More zebra mussels have been confirmed in Christmas Lake in Shorewood, despite aggressive treatments, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources announced Friday.
A lake service business reported finding one zebra mussel on a dock earlier this week. Divers with the DNR and the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District found the invasive species on docks and boat lifts in an inspection that followed the initial report. A total of 16 zebra mussels have been confirmed across a wide area of the lake.
Last year, officials treated part of the lake with bacteria-based pesticide Zequanox in September, followed by a copper treatment in November, and then injected 1,000 pounds of potash under the ice in December.
The location and age of the mussels found indicate that the invasive specifies are reproducing and further treatment would not be effective, the DNR said.
“These findings demonstrate the challenges of monitoring and treating zebra mussels,” said Keegan Lund, DNR invasive species specialist. “None of these newly discovered zebra mussels were found in the area of Christmas Lake that was treated earlier this year.”
Lund said the information learned will help with future rapid response treatments and pilot projects.
A news conference is planned for 11 a.m. to discuss the new developments at Minnehaha Creek Watershed District offices.
