Fall - Gull Chain of Lakes Association

11ZEBRA MUSSEL REPORTThis past summer, the DNR under the Invasive Species Program in the Department ofEcological Resources began an investigation of zebra mussel densities at various sites in GullLake. The goal was to determine which sites would be suitable for long term monitoringshould funding become available. These investigations were lead by Dan Swanson, DNRinvasive species specialist in the Brainerd office.The first investigation involved the use of divers to determine the average number of zebramussels per square foot along a 250 foot transect of increasing depth. The results are shownin Table 1.Table 1. Zebra mussel count at six transect sites on Gull Lake on July 12, 2012.Transect Depth Quadrant number at increased depth Average CountLocation Range & count per sq. ft. per Sq. Ft.1 2 3 4 5Dutchman’s Bluff 7’ – 18’ 610 23 60 NA NA 231Rock Pile 9’ – 26’ 105 132 15 2 0 51Cinosam Bar 14’ – 37’ 365 170 125 107 67 161Bow Tie Bars 8’ – 24’ 790 320 446 81 3 328NW of Gull Pt. 18’ – 38’ 16 2 1 0 0 4Floan’s Point 8’ – 32’ 1,000* 79 67 3 1 230*EstimateAs can be seen, the zebra mussel densities vary widely according to location. The obvious conclusion is that the zebra musselinfestation has, so far, not affected all parts of the lake equally.The second investigation was conducted to determine the presence of zebra mussel veligers, which are larvae. Zebra musselsMaking Dreams HappenFor Over 20 Years!Start to Finish Builders & Remodelershas been building dreams – and areputation for giving our clients thegreatest value for their building dollar –for over 20 years. We focus on qualitycraftsmanship and attention to detail.Our clients appreciate the stress-freeStart To Finish construction processthat takes you from idea to completedproject on budget and on time.If you are ready to build a new homeor have a remodeling project, choosethe Lakes Area!s award-winning builder– Start to Finish!Start to Finish Builders & Remodelers17025 Commercial Park Rd. Suite #4Brainerd, Mn 564011-218-828-0585MN Contractor License #20637395starttofinishbuilders.com