Invasive Zebra Mussels Found in Maple Grove’s Rice Lake
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the discovery of invasive zebra mussels in Rice Lake, located in northwest Maple Grove.
The DNR said two property owners on Rice Lake initially found zebra mussels on surfaces by their waterfront property. DNR officials also found zebra mussels on rocks in the water.
In a press release, DNR officials say both lakeshore residents found the invasive species on “settlement samplers,” which are solid surfaces put in the water to detect for zebra mussels.
Photo of Zebra Mussels taken from a different lake.
Zebra mussels can disrupt a lake’s ecosystem and are very costly to remove.
The DNR said those with waterfront properties should check their boats or other equipment for the mussels. If any is found, owners are asked to decontaminate their boats by spraying down with hot water and then dry off equipment for five days before returning to water.
Details on how to decontaminate can be found on the DNR’s website.
If you spot zebra mussels in your lake, contact a DNR invasive species specialist.
