BISMARCK – The North Dakota Game and Fish Department has confirmed the presence of invasive zebra mussels in Smishek Lake, Burke County, after detecting zebra mussel veligers in routine plankton tow net samples, the Game and Fish Department said in a news release.

Subsequent follow-up sampling found additional adult mussels in the lake, said Ben Holen, aquatic nuisance species coordinator for Game and Fish.

The 195-acre lake is a popular recreation destination located 4.8 miles north of Powers Lake.

Smishek Lake is now considered a Class I ANS-infested water. Emergency rules will go into effect immediately to prohibit the movement of water away from the lake, including water for transferring bait. Notices will be posted at lake access sites. With input from partners, the Game and Fish D

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