Zebra Mussels Found In Lake Minnewashta

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Minnehaha Creek Watershed District officials say they're hoping to take action soon after zebra mussels were found last week in Chanhassen's Lake Minnewashta.

The MCWD says a small number of the invasive species were detected Thursday near a public boat launch. Although the infestation has yet to be confirmed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, watershed officials say they want to act soon in hopes of clearing the lake.

Currently, barriers have been placed around the boat launch, which is in a channel that connects to the lake. An older boat launch has been opened for the public to use in the meantime.

Because the infestation was detected early, MCWD officials are hopeful the zebra mussels can be eliminated and the lake can again be considered infestation-free. Clean-up options are currently being considered.

Lake Minnewashta is inspected routinely for zebra mussels, officials say, due to its proximity to Lake Minnesota, which has been infested since 2010.