DETROIT LAKES, Minn. -- Zebra mussels have been found on a lake just southwest of Detroit Lakes, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
Because of the finding, Lake Eunice has been designated as zebra mussel infested.
A citizen tipped off the finding on the southeast side of the lake to the DNR aquatic invasive species staff in Fergus Falls.
Following the identification, DNR crews inspected more than 580 objects at six locations, including rocks, sticks, plants, docks and native clams. Crews collected eight zebra mussels in four different locations on the lakes. The zebra mussels ranged in size from one-quarter inch to one inch, indicating there are two different year classes present in the lake.
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A marshy stream connects Lake Eunice to Lake Maud to the north. No zebra mussels were found, so Lake Maud will not be designated as an infested lake.
Less than one-quarter of 1 percent of Minnesota lakes are known to have zebra mussels.
Minnesota anglers and boaters are urged to follow aquatic invasive species laws and do their part to prevent the spread of invasive species. Under law, boaters are required to clean weeds and debris from their boats, remove drain plugs and keep them out while traveling, and dispose of unused bait in the trash.
