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Zebra mussels found in Sand Lake National Refuge

US Fish and Wildlife Service
Zebra mussels are an invasive species.

The Department of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) confirms zebra mussel have been found the Sand Lake National Refuge in Brown County.

The invasive species has been spreading across the state in recent years. It can negatively affect aquatic wildlife.

According to Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator Tanner Davis, both the Sand Lake National Refuge and the James River are classified as infested with these mussels.

"We discovered the presence of zebra mussels through snorkel survey, which is utilized on high risk and suspect waters," Davis said.

GFP Communications Manager Nick Harrington warns people to stay vigilant through the summer.

"We are in the peak of the summer boating season, and everyone needs to be doing their part to slow the spread of invasive species,” he said.

GFP has worked to increase their prevention efforts in recent years, including performing boat inspections. Officials encourage people to stop at inspection stations to do their part in preventing the spread of this invasive species.

Veda is an English and journalism major at Augustana University in Sioux Falls. She loves writing and storytelling, and she plans to pursue a career as a journalist after graduation.