News release: Zebra mussels confirmed in East Twin Lake in Lyon County

August 29, 2024

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in East Twin Lake, near Florence in Lyon County.
A DNR conservation officer was contacted by an angler who found four adult zebra mussels on a stick in East Twin Lake. DNR invasive species specialists found more than a dozen adult zebra mussels each at two locations during a follow-up search. The size variation and distribution of zebra mussels indicate they have likely been reproducing in the lake for several years.

Lake Sarah (Murray County) Zebra Mussel Concern for Lyon County

Lake Sarah in Murray County (MN) has what officials are describing as a 3-5 year old infestation of Zebra Mussels. Some believe they may have arrived on a dock that was purchased from an owner living on a lake infested with zebra mussels. Although this is speculation, this situation validates the need to Clean, Drain, & Dry ALL Boats, Docks, and Water Recreation Items.

Zebra Mussels were transported through ballasts of cargo ships through the great Lakes region, which then resulted in the transport from great lakes to nearby lakes and streams. As we see today they are still being transported by way of boats and other watercraft, docks, and waterfowl hunting equipment. These are all possible ways of transport and do not suggest that any one category is responsible.

Prevent the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species

Please pull drain plugs, and remove all aquatic vegetation, when leaving and entering another water body.

	1. CLEAN all visible aquatic plants, zebra mussels, and other prohibited invasive species from watercraft, trailers, and water-related equipment before leaving any water access or shoreland.
	2. DRAIN water-related equipment (boat, ballast tanks, portable bait containers, motor) and drain bilge, livewell and bait well by removing drain plugs before leaving a water access or shoreline property. Keep drain plugs out and water-draining devices open while transporting watercraft. Q&A – Boat draining, drain plugs, and bait container draining
	3. DISPOSE of unwanted bait, including minnows, leeches, and worms, in the trash. It is illegal to release bait into a waterbody or release aquatic animals from one waterbody to another. If you want to keep your bait, you must refill the bait container with bottled or tap water.