Zebra mussel expert to speak in Alexandria

• Doug Jensen

Photo by Marissa Jensen Doug Jensen shows how small zebra mussels are. He’ll make a presentation here on December 1.

Talk about it

Minnesotans love to spend time on the water.

Protecting these resources is an important part of the overall enjoyment.

But there’s something that can put that at risk: Harmful plants, animals and other organisms that can hitch a ride on clothing, boats and items used in the water.

On Tuesday, December 1, residents will have a chance to learn more about those invaders.

Doug Jensen, aquatic species program coordinator with Minnesota Sea Grant, will present, “Life After Zebra Mussels” from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Douglas County Public Works Building,

The event is open to the public. Participants will learn about zebra mussels – the myths and realities – as Jensen shares his experience and knowledge about the threats of invasive species in Minnesota waterways.

Just two key questions Jensen will address: “Do boat wash stations really work?” “Can any regular citizen – fishermen, boaters, residents – help stop aquatic hitchhikers?”

Sponsors that made this event possible included the Sauk River Watershed District, Douglas County Lakes Association, Douglas County Soil and Water Conservation District and Minnesota Sea Grant Program.

Zebra mussels were discovered in Lake L’Homme Dieu this past June.

Six more lakes connected to L’Homme Dieu were also identified as infested, including Carlos, Darling, Geneva, Victoria, Jessie and Alvin.

Zebra mussels are small – about the size of a fingernail – and can attach to anything hard. They filter large volumes of lake water, producing more weeds and less plankton for fish to eat, which can decrease fish populations and size.

Minnesota Sea Grant facilitates interaction among the public and scientists to enhance the environment and communities along Lake Superior and Minnesota’s inland waters by identifying information needs, fostering research and communicating results.

It is part of the National Sea Grant Program, which supports 30 similar programs in coastal states throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Minnesota Sea Grant is funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the University of Minnesota.

Tags: local news, zebra mussels, doug jensen, news, alexandria, dnr, lakes, fishing