Aquatic Invasive Species
Zebra Mussels
Zebra mussels were discovered In Lake Minnetonka by a local resident on July 27, 2010 and confirmed by DNR biologists on July 28, 2010. The MN DNR has created a web page to serve as a clearing house for information related to zebra mussels in Lake Minnetonka.
Minnesota DNR- Zebra Mussels in Lake Minnetonka Information Page
Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Legislation Summary – 2011
The zebra mussel is a small, fingernail-sized mussel first found in Lake St. Clair near Detroit in 1988. This native of the Caspian Sea region in Asia is tolerant of a wide range of environmental conditions. To date, they have spread to parts of all the Great Lakes, the Mississippi River, and are showing up in inland lakes. A common problem they present is the clogging of water-intake systems of power plants, water treatment facilities, and the cooling systems of boat engines. Eventually, they may eliminate native mussel species.
One factor in the rapid spread of zebra mussels is the reproductive rate of a female zebra mussel. Spawning generally occurs in the spring and can continue through the summer until fall. Over the course of a year, a female zebra mussel can produce up to one million eggs. These develop into microscopic, free-swimming larvae called veligers that begin to form shells. At about three weeks, they begin to firmly attach themselves to solid objects such as submerged rocks, dock pilings, boat hulls, water intake pipes.
The LMCD has worked with the MN DNR and other agencies to inform homeowners, lake service providers and other lake users on what to do after the discovery of zebra mussels in Lake Minnetonka. Below are links to information on how to responsibly use Lake Minnetonka and prevent the spread of zebra mussels.
It’s the Law! Before you leave Lake Minnetonka you must …
Lake Service Provider’s Training sheet
Q&A Transport of Watercraft and Lakeshore Equipment From Infested Waters in Minnesota
