09-24-2018 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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USGS Zequanox Study (2013-2014) Collaborated with USGS as they tested a new control product, Zequanox, for zebra mussel control in enclosures located in Robinsons Bay of Lake Minnetonka. MCWD provided local assistance in project coordination and execution as well as use of our laboratory facility. Tonka Bay Marina provided local assistance with the use of their facility and equipment to execute the project. The goal of this study was to assess the efficacy of Zequanox for controlling zebra mussels in lake environments and evaluate the use of Zequanox for open -water application. Lake Minnetonka Zebra Mussel Study (2011 — Present) Since the discovery of zebra mussels in Lake Minnetonka in 2010, the District has been monitoring the population of zebra mussels and water quality in the lake by examining the interactions between zebra mussels and lake water quality. Seven years into the study, there have been a number of valuable findings. Existing water quality conditions, especially the abundance and type of algae in an area, appear to have a direct impact on whether or not zebra mussels thrive. Significant changes in water clarity and algal abundance have also been observed. This detailed data on how zebra mussels spread in different types of lake conditions will be valuable for predicting the severity of infestations in lakes across the state, and the impacts they may have on water quality. Zebra Mussel Veliger Control Study (2016-2017) MCWD received a $24,000 Hennepin County AIS grant and partnered with MAISRC to study the efficacy of low doses of a copper -based pesticide to control zebra mussel veligers. In 2017, MAISRC received a follow-up grant from Hennepin County to continue the research, with MCWD's assistance. The goal of the study was to evaluate if very low doses of a copper -based pesticide could effectively control zebra mussel veligers at rates much lower than adults. Strategic management of zebra mussel veilgers could potentially suppress zebra mussel populations over time in small waterbodies or isolated bays, providing both a management and prevention tool. USGS Zebra Mussel Control Study (2016-2017) Partnered with the USGS to examine the effectiveness of different pesticides for zebra mussel control at varying water temperatures and concentrations. As MCWD and its partners conducted the Christmas Lake rapid response to zebra mussels, it was evident there were a lot of data gaps on product effectiveness for zebra mussel control that would greatly inform future control options for water resource managers. This study evaluated multiple pesticides at varying concentrations and temperatures, and provides managers with data to make more informed decisions when choosing control products for zebra mussel control. This work directly informed the rapid response to zebra mussels in Lake Minnewashta. Invasive Plant Research Invasive plants generally can cause ecological harm by outcompeting beneficial native plants, creating dense matted stands at the water's surface that can provide for poor habitat for aquatic life, and can provide a nuisance for recreation. Hybrid Milfoil Pilot Study (2015) Hybrid milfoil, a cross between the native and invasive milfoil, is known to exist but little is understood about how invasive it may be compared to Eurasian Watermilfoil, or if it is more difficult to control. MCWD received a $15,417 Hennepin County AIS grant and partnered with We collaborate with public and private partners to protect and improve land and water for current and future generations. 15320 Minnetonka Boulevard, Minnetonka, MN 55345 • (952) 471-0590 • Fax: (952) 471-0682 • www.minnehahacreek.org