News Release


Zebra Mussels found in Silver Lake in Waushara County
May not be established, boaters key to prevention

WAUTOMA, Wis. – Several zebra mussels were recently found in Silver Lake in Waushara County spurring the DNR to remind boaters to take action when transferring their boats and equipment to prevent zebra mussels and other invasive species from spreading.


A single adult mussel was recently found by a lake consultant on an aquatic plant in Silver Lake. A few zebra mussel larvae were also found in samples collected by the DNR in July.


“These findings do not necessarily mean that zebra mussels have become established in Silver Lake,” said Scott Provost, DNR’s Water Quality Biologist for the Wautoma area. “While the results indicate the presence of zebra mussels in Silver Lake, there is not enough evidence at this time to show that zebra mussels have established a sustaining population there.”


Provost notes that there have been other lakes in Wisconsin where zebra mussels were found at one time or another, but that failed to establish reproducing populations. This means it is too early to say for certain whether or not zebra mussels are established in Silver Lake.


“This finding should raise the level of awareness that Silver Lake is vulnerable to infestation by zebra mussels,” added Dick Sachs, Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator for the DNR’s northeastern Wisconsin region. “It also reinforces the need for boaters and other lake users to take action to prevent the introduction and spread of zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species into Silver Lake and all of Wisconsin’s waters.”


Zebra mussels form dense clusters that attach to hard surfaces. They can decimate native mussel populations, decrease the oxygen that fish and other aquatic species need, and worsen algae blooms. In addition, zebra mussels can clog boat engines, and intake pipes for utilities and industrial facilities; and their sharp shells can cut the feet of swimmers and beach walkers.


Sachs encourages boaters to practice a set of simple, but highly effective steps to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Before leaving any boat launch:


Inspect and remove all aquatic plants, animals and mud from the boat, trailer and equipment


Drain all water from the livewell, bilge, motor, etc.


Dispose of unused bait in the trash, not in the water


Spray/rinse the boat and equipment with high-pressure and/or hot water, especially if moored for more than a day; or dry the boat and equipment thoroughly for five days.


The DNR has been monitoring Silver Lake for zebra mussels for several years and will continue to do so. Lakeshore property owners can assist the monitoring efforts by inspecting their shorelines for zebra mussels. Places to check include any hard underwater surface such as rocks, piers and boat hulls. The best time to inspect those surfaces is in the fall when piers and boats are removed from the water. Zebra mussels are D-shaped, range in size from ¼ inch to 2 inches long, and have distinctive alternating black and white stripes.


Anyone finding a suspected zebra mussel in Silver Lake is asked to save it for submittal and report that finding to DNR. Scott Provost can be contacted at 920-787-4686 and Dick Sachs can be contacted at 920-492-5887.