SUCKER LAKE-- From November 1st-3rd, the Saint Paul Regional Water Service (SPRWS) took to removing the zebra mussels that blocked water flow in the Sucker Lake channel. Zebra mussels were found in the chain of lakes in 2006 and have sense become a nuisance, spreading through the lakes and the conduits that lead to the SPRWS treatment plant (no mussels get through the treatment plant).

Throughout the metro, zebra mussels have been known to clog key infrastructure such as fire hydrant lines. The cost of maintenance is covered by various groups and agencies, depending on the water body and the extent of the project. SPRWS estimates their cost for this zebra mussel removal at Sucker Lake to be $23,500 including labor, equipment, and transportation fees.

Zebra mussels also pose significant issues for habitat and recreation. Because they were introduced from Russia into the great lakes, having since spread across North America, they have no natural predators. Dominating the aquatic habitat, they out compete all sorts of fish and aquatic insects by consuming more food and physically taking up more space. 

Female zebra mussels can produce up to 500,000 eggs per year. These eggs turn into free-living larvae called veligers that meander through the water column, settle on surfaces, and eventually form shells. For more information on zebra mussels, contacts, and updates on the zebra mussels in Minnesota, visit the DNR website. 

Help us spread the word to prevent the spread of invasive species! Keep boats and any aquatic equipment free of debris, drained on site when removed from the water, and dry for 21 days before going into another water body.