The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources confirmed zebra mussels in Sauer Lake in Becker County and Eleventh Crow Wing Lake in Hubbard County this week. I read the DNR news release published October 1, 2026, which stated that the invasive species was found during routine watercraft inspections.
Zebra mussels are small, fingernail-sized mollusks that can clog water intake pipes, damage boat engines, and alter lake ecosystems by filtering out plankton that native fish need. The DNR report noted that Sauer Lake is near Detroit Lakes, while Eleventh Crow Wing Lake is near Akeley. These lakes join a growing list of Minnesota waters infested with zebra mussels, which have spread across the state since first being discovered in the 1980s.
What this means for Minnesota homeowners
If you own lakefront property on either of these lakes, or use them for recreation, the DNR asks you to take steps to prevent further spread. Clean all plants, mud, and debris from boats and trailers before leaving the lake. Drain all water from bait buckets, live wells, and bilges. Dry everything for at least five days before launching in another water body.
For homeowners near the shore, check docks and lifts for zebra mussels when pulling them out for winter. The DNR also encourages reporting any new sightings. If you’re dealing with aggressive wildlife on land, remember that protecting kids from an aggressive raccoon requires a different set of precautions than managing aquatic invasives. And if you’re watching for structural damage from other burrowing animals, a woodchuck digging near your foundation can cause serious problems that need prompt attention.
The notice is published by Minnesota Department of Natural Resources at www.dnr.state.mn.us.
