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SD Game, Fish, and Parks reports zebra mussel infestation in Big Stone Lake

Zebra mussels (file)
US Fish And Wildlife Service
Zebra mussels (file)

South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks reports Big Stone Lake is now infested with zebra mussels.

This comes as the agency reminds people who live on lakes to check their docks for the invasive species.

Game, Fish and Parks said dock removal is the perfect time to look for juvenile zebra mussels that have settled on the dock.

The department also reminds all anglers and boaters to clean, drain, and dry every time they use the water. They also encourage boaters who encounter zebra mussels to report them as quickly as possible.

"Effective education and outreach is key for slowing the spread of AIS," said GF&P Communications Manager Nick Harrington. "Individuals taking the time to inspect for zebra mussels, being able to identify them, and swiftly reporting them to GFP show our methods are working."

A current list of GF&P named infested water bodies can be found here.

Evan Walton is an SDPB reporter based in Sioux Falls. Evan holds a Master’s in English Literature from Southern New Hampshire University and was honorably discharged from the United States Army in 2015, where he served for five years as an infantryman.