(Wahpeton)– Preliminary reports indicate the Iowa Great Lakes have emerged from another summer season free of invasive aquatic species…including Eurasian Watermilfoil and Zebra Mussels.
Officials with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources say sampler plates at the bottom of navigational buoys recently removed for the season show no indication of infestations of Zebra Mussels.
Having said that, officials say they are closely monitoring docks and boat hoists as they’re being removed for any sign of an infestation. Residents are being asked to look closely at dock posts, swim ladders and hoists after they’ve been removed. Anyone seeing anything out of the ordinary should contact the DNR’s local office at 336-1840.
Zebra Mussels have been found as close to the Iowa Great Lakes as Clear Lake. Several lakes in Minnesota are also infested.
Zebra Mussels have sharp edges and are prolific reproducers. They have been known to clog intakes for water treatment plants.
