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Zebra Mussels Confirmed In Knaus Lake in Stearns County

11/03/2017 - 9:00 AM

A lake near Cold Spring is the latest to be added to a list of lakes confirmed to have zebra mussels in Minnesota.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is reporting they found several spots with the invasive species in Knaus Lake. Invasive species specialists for the DNR reported two adult zebra mussels on a dock and an adjacent water intake pipe, and three more attached to a dock at the Lions Park public access to the Sauk River, which is downstream from the lake.

The DNR is advising boaters and homeowners on the lake to check for zebra mussels this fall as they bring in boat lifts. You should look on the posts, wheels and underwater supports as well as on the bottom of any boats that were in the water for extended periods of time.

Zebra mussels are damaging because they compete for food and habitat with native species to the lake, can cut the feet of swimmers, reduce the efficiency of boat motors and clog intake pipes.

By the way, state law requires that all docks and lifts be allowed to dry for at least 21 days before being placed in another body of water.