DNR concerned by zebra mussels found in Prior Lake

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is cautioning boaters and anglers after zebra mussels were discovered in Prior Lake.

The DNR says it was alerted to the problem recently after a resident found some zebra shells on the southeast shore of Lower Prior Lake.

The agency is asking boaters to remove all plant life when they leave the water, and to thoroughly hose their boats.

Zebra mussels are native to eastern Europe and western Russia. They were first discovered in Minnesota in 1989 in the Duluth harbor.

Heavy zebra mussel infestations can kill native mussels, hurt fish populations and interfere with recreation. They can also increase costs for industry, including power- and water-supply facilities.

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Information from: KSTP-TV, http://www.kstp.com

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