Zebra mussel larvae detected in Lake Winnipegosis and Waterhen Lake

The province has launched its invasive species early detection response protocol after zebra mussel veligers, or larvae, have been found in Lake Winnipegosis and Waterhen Lake.

A local fisher reported zebra mussels attached to their boat in Lake Winnipegosis, according to a press release from the province sent Monday morning.

Analysis of veliger samples taken before the fisher’s report found the larvae in both lakes, which will be monitored in the next few weeks to determine the severity of the invasions.

Anyone using either lake will be required to decontaminate their watercraft and any water-related equipment before entering another body of water. Anyone transporting watercraft over land are required to stop at watercraft inspection stations, set up across Manitoba. The locations and opening hours of these stations can be found on the province of Manitoba’s website.