Zebra mussels confirmed at Lake McCarrons
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has confirmed reports of zebra mussels in Lake McCarrons in Roseville.
Ramsey County, in partnership with the Capitol Region Watershed District and the DNR, have conducted a follow-up survey of the lake. Zebra mussels were determined to be distributed broadly, making treatment at Lake McCarrons impossible at this time. Options will continue to be explored for limiting the population and preventing the spread.
This report is in addition to zebra mussels that were confirmed in Bald Eagle Lake and Lake Johanna in 2018.
Ramsey County has an active Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention Program and coordinates inspections at the Ramsey County public boat launch sites. Efforts will be made to increase the inspection hours at Lake McCarrons for the remainder of the summer.
Whether or not a lake is listed as infested, Minnesota law requires boaters and anglers to:
- Clean watercraft and trailers of aquatic plants and prohibited invasive species.
- Drain all water by removing drain plugs and keeping them out during transport.
- Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.
Zebra mussels can compete with native species for food and habitat, cut the feet of swimmers, reduce the performance of boat motors and cause expensive damage to water intake pipes.
More information is available on the DNR’s website.