In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the alarming presence of zebra mussels in Union Lake, confirmed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This news has raised concerns about the potential spread of invasive species and the impact on local ecosystems.

Officials acknowledged the challenges of maintaining adequate inspection services at the lake, particularly during peak usage times. Despite efforts to staff the access site with inspectors, budget constraints limit their ability to provide 24/7 coverage. Currently, inspections are conducted primarily on weekends, with officials noting that they have been able to perform up to 70 inspections in a single day. However, the lack of full-time staffing has raised questions about the effectiveness of these measures.

The meeting also highlighted the need for public awareness regarding the presence of zebra mussels and other invasive species, such as curly leaf pondweed and Eurasian watermilfoil, already affecting the lake. Officials emphasized the importance of community involvement in preventing the further spread of these species, urging lake users to remain vigilant.

In response to the zebra mussel discovery, plans are underway to install signage at the access site to inform visitors of the situation. Additionally, discussions included the potential placement of a contamination unit in the parking lot to assist with inspections, although concerns about accessibility and traffic flow were raised.

As the situation develops, local authorities are committed to continuing their inspection programs and engaging with the community to mitigate the risks associated with invasive species in Union Lake.