Dakota Download Governor Burgum's Weekly Update - September 8, 2024

Zebra mussels found in eastern ND lake highlight need to stay vigilant against ANS

Last spring, Gov. Doug Burgum issued a proclamation designating May 5-11, 2024, as Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Awareness Week. And an announcement last week from the North Dakota Game and Fish Department underscores why it's so important to remain vigilant against the threat of ANS to North Dakota's water bodies.

Game and Fish announced it has confirmed the presence of invasive zebra mussels in South Golden Lake in Steele County, after detecting zebra mussel veligers in routine net samples.

Department ANS coordinator Ben Holen said subsequent follow-up sampling found additional adult mussels in the lake.

The 331-acre lake is a popular recreation destination located 13 miles southwest of Hatton.

Due to its immediate downstream connection, North Golden will be listed with South Golden Lake as Class I ANS infested waters. These lakes join Lake Elsie, Twin Lakes, Lake LaMoure, Lake Ashtabula, lower portion of the Sheyenne River, and the Red River in this designation. Emergency rules will go into effect immediately to prohibit the movement of water away from the lake, including water for transferring bait. Notices will be posted at lake access sites.

Zebra mussels are just one of the non-native aquatic species that threaten North Dakota's waters and native wildlife. After using any body of water, people must remember to follow North Dakota regulations:

• Remove aquatic vegetation before leaving the water access and do not import into North Dakota.
• Drain all water before leaving the water access.
• Remove drain plugs and devices that hold back water and leave open and out during transport.
• Do not import aquatic bait into the state. For Class I ANS infested waters, aquatic bait cannot be transported away from the water. In all other areas, bait must be transported in a container that holds 5 gallons or less. It is illegal to dump unused bait on shore or into the lake.

In addition to North Dakota regulations, the Game and Fish Department strongly recommends the following:

• Avoid mooring watercraft in zebra mussels infested waters.
• Clean – remove plants, animals and excessive mud prior to leaving a water access.
• Drain – drain all water prior to leaving a water access.
• Dry – allow equipment to dry completely or disinfect before using again. This includes boat docks and boat lifts. North Dakota Administrative Code states that “All docks, lifts and related equipment must be dried and left out of water for at least 21 days before they may be placed in another water."

For more information about ANS in North Dakota, options for disinfection, or to report a possible ANS, click the box below.