Sample Sidebar Module

This is a sample module published to the sidebar_top position, using the -sidebar module class suffix. There is also a sidebar_bottom position below the menu.

Sample Sidebar Module

This is a sample module published to the sidebar_bottom position, using the -sidebar module class suffix. There is also a sidebar_top position below the search.
  • Home

Help prevent spread of invasive New Zealand mudsnails

Summary: It is critically important to properly decontaminate gear and equipment to protect water bodies from invasive species. Several decontamination methods are detailed for combating the New Zealand mudsnail.

Oct 9, 2018
Petoskey News

At about only one-eighth of an inch long, a New Zealand
mudsnail can be difficult to see.

Salmon are moving upstream to spawn and the upcoming weeks and months can provide world-class fishing in Michigan’s rivers and streams, particularly for salmon and steelhead. If you’re on the water, remember to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of New Zealand mudsnails, an invasive species in Michigan since 2015.

At about only one-eighth of an inch long, a New Zealand mudsnail can be difficult to see. However, these snails can radically change the aquatic habitats they live in by reaching very high densities. When that happens, they can out-compete native species that are important food sources for trout. They also have no nutritional value for fish that do feed on them, and that can negatively affect overall fish health.

“New Zealand mudsnails spread easily because they can hitch a ride on almost anything, including anglers themselves, fishing equipment, wading gear and other hard surfaces,” said Seth Herbst, the DNR’s aquatic species and regulatory affairs manager. “Once attached, they can ride to a new river or lake and begin the invasion process again. These mudsnails have been known to survive in damp environments for days or even weeks.”

Since the initial report in 2015, New Zealand mudsnails have spread in Michigan and now are found in the Pere Marquette, Boardman, AuSable and Upper Manistee rivers, as well as Tippy Dam Pond near the Pine River. Herbst said it’s critically important to properly decontaminate gear and equipment to protect other streams from this invader.

After fishing, clean, drain and dry equipment to help prevent the spread of these invasive snails and all types of aquatic invasive species. Soaking gear and equipment with a Virkon Aquatic or Formula 409 solution — Oakland University research showed that Formula 409 is effective at killing New Zealand mudsnails — is recommended, but simply allowing equipment to dry or freeze for at least five days before reusing is effective for decontamination.

To learn more, visit michigan.gov/invasives or contact Seth Herbst at (517) 284-5841 or Elyse Walter at (517) 284-5839.