Zebra mussels confirmed in Turtle Lake
The Turtle Lake Board regrets to announce that, despite our many efforts, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels at multiple locations in Turtle Lake. Itasca County Soil and Water Conservation District staff contacted the DNR after finding juvenile zebra mussels on equipment in Turtle Lake during an end-of-season inspection.
The DNR has posted a sign at the Turtle Lake public boat launch and will release further details when they consider appropriate.
First, we must do all we can to avoid spreading zebra mussels to other water bodies. This includes visual checking of equipment and watercraft, as well as cleaning, draining, and drying. We must be extremely careful bringing our boats to other bodies of water, and we should inform and educate any guests who bring their own watercraft to Turtle Lake.
Second, we should not allow ourselves to adopt an attitude of resignation or defeat when it comes to aquatic invasive species. Lakes with zebra mussels have a higher risk of becoming infested with other invasive species. This is in part because zebra mussels cause ecosystem changes that make a lake more vulnerable, but it is also because people can become careless toward a lake they see as "already infested." It is more important than ever to be diligent in protecting our lake from additional, more serious infestations.
Remember that Minnesota law requires people to:
Clean watercraft, trailers, and equipment to remove aquatic plants and prohibited invasive species.
Drain all water and leave drain plugs out during transport.
Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.
Never release bait, plants, or aquarium pets into Minnesota waters.
Dry docks, lifts, and rafts for 21 days before moving them from one water body to another.
These additional steps also reduce the risk of spreading aquatic invasive species:
Decontaminate watercraft and equipment.
Spray with high-pressure water or rinse with very hot water (120 degrees for at least two minutes or 140 degrees for at least 10 seconds).
Dry watercraft and equipment for at least five days before using in another water body.
Thanks to all of you for your continued diligence and assistance in the stewardship of our beautiful lake.
Click below for additional information: