DNR considers measures to curb invasive species

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is considering proposing mandatory boat inspections at key lakes, to prevent the spread of invasive species.

The idea is one of a handful suggested by the Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Stakeholder Group, a citizens' advisory group.

Luke Skinner, supervisor of the DNR's Invasive Species Program, said it would take a lot of infrastructure and staff.

"You can imagine on a Sunday evening with thousands of boats coming off, you have to be really staffed up and have the ability to do something like that," Skinner said, adding that much work has to be done to determine whether the proposal is feasible.

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Skinner said one of the most promising suggestions is to boost the penalty for not cleaning a boat properly.

Other ideas include enlisting help from local law enforcement officers and using social media to increase awareness.

Popular lakes where zebra mussels have been found include Lake Minnetonka, Lake Mille Lacs, Lake Victoria and Gull Lake near Brainerd.

The DNR will report to the Legislature, which would have to pass new laws to put some of the suggestions into place.