According to studies Zebra Mussels are very hardy and can survive up to a week out of the water.

Immature Zebra Mussels, Veliger are microscopic and travel very easily in water.

Below is a S.D. Game & Parks video explaining just how quickly Zebra Mussels can take-over on a lake!

SOUTH DAKOTA LAWS AND REGULATIONS

The discovery of zebra mussels in Lake Sharpe and Lake Francis Case in the summer of 2019 was “a game-changer” for the fight against invasive species across South Dakota. Throughout this fight, aquatic invasive species (AIS) regulations have been created and adopted to prevent the spread of this species. Find out what you can do to make sure you are following all the regulations and doing your part to combat invasive species in South Dakota.

General Regulations

• You may not possess, transport, sell, purchase, or propagate an aquatic invasive species. For invasive fish and crayfish, only dead specimens may be transported or possessed.
  • Exceptions include:
    • An employee of a business approved by the department may transport and possess watercraft with AIS for the purpose of watercraft decontamination.
    • An owner or agent of the owner of a boat registered in a department-approved local boat registry may transport and possess an aquatic invasive species in accordance with the provisions of the registry.
• You must pull your plugs immediately after loading your boat and leave the plugs out until you are putting the boat back on the water.
• Never transport lake or river water away from the access area, including in bait buckets, livewells, coolers or other containers.
• Dispose of unwanted bait in a dumpster, fish grinder, or other appropriate disposal location.
• Immediately after loading your boat, inspect both your boat and trailer for any mud, plants, animals or other debris and remove anything you find.

CLEAN. DRAIN, DRY EVERY TIME!