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State Representative Tom Anzelc
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-4936
For more information contact: Zachary Stephenson 651-268-1644
Column/LTE
SPINY WATER FLEA A THREAT
To The Editor:
I recently received a briefing from the Department of Natural Resources with some sad news. The DNR has classified several lakes in Voyageurs National Park as "infested waters" due to the spread of the Spiny Water Flea, an invasive species.
The Spiny Water Flea, which is native to Eurasia and spread to the Great Lakes in the ballast water of ships, represents a new threat to the Boundary Waters. This tiny animal can gum up equipment and competes with small fish for food. In fact, the presence of the Spiny Water Flea could result in a decrease in the amount of yellow perch and other small fish, which in turn could reduce the population of walleye.
Fortunately, the DNR has decided to adopt a set of tough responses to this new invasive species. As I already mentioned, the DNR has classified several lakes – including Rainy Lake, Rainy River, Namakan Lake and Lake of the Woods – as infested waters. They will actively monitor the situation in these bodies of water and look for ways to fight the Spiny Water Flea.
More important is the effort to protect the lakes in Northern Minnesota that are not yet infested. This is a fight that the DNR cannot fight on its own; they need our help. Self-policing is the best way to ensure that our border waters remain clean. When you visit these lakes, make sure that all of your equipment is dry and free of fleas beforehand. The Spiny Water Flea cannot travel from lake to lake on its own.
Meanwhile, I will continue to support educational initiatives designed to increase awareness of the threat posed by the Spiny Water Flea and other invasive species. Our lakes and rivers are a great treasure and they must be protected so that our children and grandchildren can enjoy them just as we do today.
Regards,
Rep. Tom Anzelc
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