The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has confirmed the presence of an aquatic invasive species in an Itasca County lake.

According to a news release, the DNR says that the AIS starry stonewort has been found in Dora Lake, located near Wirt. Staff found the AIS during an algae survey funded by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR). A follow-up survey found roughly 100 square feet where starry stonewort integrated with other aquatic plants.

Starry stonewort has never been eradicated from a U.S. lake or river. The DNR says treatment or careful removal can help reduce the risk of spreading the AIS to other water recreation areas. Available treatments for the AIS include hand pulling, herbicide applications or other methods as appropriate. Key mitigation tactics also include earlier detection.

Starry stonewort is an algae that looks like other native aquatic plants. It can form dense mats, which then interfere with recreational use of lakes and compete with the native plants. The DNR says it can spread due to improper cleaning of trailered boats personal water crafts, docks, boat lifts, anchors, and other water-related equipment. Cleaning and draining boats are two ways to prevent the spread of AIS.

The DNR has confirmed the presence of starry stonewort in 28 Minnesota water bodies. It was first confirmed in Minnesota in 2015.

By — Mary Balstad