6/05/2025

IRON COUNTY - An aquatic invasive species known to hurt walleye and perch survival have been found on a lake in Southern Iron County.  Spiny waterfleas have been discovered in Sandy Beach Lake about 9 miles southwest of Manitowish Waters.  Initial evidence was documented in the summer of 2023 during routine lake monitoring. In 2024 the DNR followed up with monitoring that confirmed a small number of spiny waterfleas.  The invasive species reduces the abundance of native zooplankton, which reduces food availability for juvenile fish. Young walleye and perch are dependent on zooplankton for survival.  There is no effective way of controlling spiny waterfleas, so its key to stop their spread by cleaning equipment and draining water from boats.