Despite Treatment, Zebra Mussels Confirmed In Christmas Lake
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Once again, though the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reported aggressive treatment, zebra mussels continue their stubborn residence in Christmas Lake.
The DNR said that 16 zebra mussels were confirmed in the Shorewood lake across a wide area. Last May, the agency reported that they were back even after a multi-pronged attack using a bacteria-based pesticide called Zequanox, a copper treatment, and 1,000 pounds of potash during the icing months.
This time, however, the DNR says that it seems clear the reproducing population has been established. They said any further treatment would not be effective.
"None of these newly discovered zebra mussels were found in the area of Christmas Lake that was treated earlier this year," Keegan Lund, DNR invasive species specialist, said.
Even on a rainy day, Christmas Lake looks very peaceful. But officials with the DNR and the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District call this a war zone.
"It's a battle we've lost, but not necessarily a war that we're willing to give up on," Shorewood Mayor Scott Zerby said. "We will continue to defend the ramp and the borders to the lake's natural resources."
The DNR says they hope that the information they gathered during the Christmas Lake battle could be applied to other bodies of water in Minnesota going forward.
"There is a common misconception that zebra mussels 'are everywhere' and that their spread is inevitable. The reality is, zebra mussels have been confirmed in less than two percent of Minnesota lakes, and more Minnesotans than ever before know and follow invasive species laws. People spread zebra mussels, and people can prevent the spread," Lund said.
Officials say fighting zebra mussels at Christmas Lake has shown that treatments must begin as soon as possible, and include an area larger than where the animals are found.
The DNR says zebra mussels have been confirmed in only two percent of Minnesota lakes.