GFP Confirms Zebra Mussels in Bitter Lake; Boaters Urged to “Clean, Drain, Dry”

Northeast Radio SD News – Day County, SD - With summer recreation ramping up across northeast South Dakota, state wildlife officials are urging boaters to take extra precautions after zebra mussels were confirmed in Bitter Lake.

South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks (GFP) staff say this is the time of year when zebra mussels are often microscopic and easiest to spread, making proper decontamination essential.

“This is the time of year that zebra mussels can be microscopic and most easily transported from waterbody to waterbody,” said Tanner Davis, GFP Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator. “It is important for all boaters and water users to remember to Clean, Drain, Dry every time they leave the water.”

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Zebra Mussels Found on Bitter Lake Structure

The detection came after a fishing guide reported a suspicious mussel on Bitter Lake. GFP fisheries staff from Webster followed up and located zebra mussels attached to flooded trees south of the inlet on the northwest side of the lake.

Davis said the finding was not unexpected.

“With South Rush being positive for several years and due to direct water connectivity, additional detections were anticipated over time,” he said.

Because of the confirmed presence, Bitter Lake, along with connected waters including Goose Lake and Solomon Slough, are now officially classified as zebra mussel–positive.

Public Reporting Helped Confirm the Discovery

GFP officials say this detection is a strong example of how public reporting helps protect South Dakota waters.

“This was a great example of a boater reporting a suspect mussel and staff confirming presence,” Davis said.

Anyone who encounters a possible zebra mussel or other aquatic invasive species is encouraged to:

·        Submit a report through GFP’s Citizen Monitoring page

·        Contact a local or regional GFP office

·        Email Tanner Davis directly at Tanner.Davis@state.sd.us

What Boaters Should Do

GFP continues to emphasize the Clean, Drain, Dry protocol:

·        Clean: Remove all plants, mud, and debris

·        Drain: Empty all water from boats, livewells, and equipment

·        Dry: Allow boats and gear to dry completely before launching elsewhere

Zebra mussels can cause considerable ecological and infrastructure damage, making prevention the most effective tool for slowing their spread.