Treatment at Lake Minnewashta bay kills all zebra mussels
FILE
CHANHASSEN, Minn. (KMSP) - A copper product used in a Lake Minnewashta bay proved to be effective in killing zebra mussels, according to officials with the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District.
As part of MCWD's early detection program, 14 juvenile zebra mussels were found at the public boat access in the bay called "Little Minnie."
Officials say 100 percent of the zebra mussels died within 10 days of applying the product, EarthTecQZ. MCWD, Carver County and the Lake Minnewashta Preservation Association and the Minnesota DNR worked together to create the treatment plan, which focused on the 29-acre bay where the boat access is located. The barriers put up during the treatment have been removed and the boat access has reopened.
“By broadening our response well beyond the spot where the zebra mussels were found, we improved our chances for success,” said Fieldseth. “We learned from Christmas Lake that you need to treat the largest area feasible and we are pleased we were able to do that.”
Officials will continue to monitor the lake for zebra mussels.