Last week the results from the veliger tows collected on Balsam Lake in August by Wisconsin DNR staff came back positive, with one single veliger. On Monday LWRD staff removed a plate sampler installed near the area of where the first adult zebra mussel was found in Boston Bay. Right away staff were able to identify adult zebra mussels on the plate sampler. The sampler was further reviewed in the lab and the investigation resulted in 22 adult zebra mussels being attached to the sampler. On Tuesday LWRD staff found ideal habitat on the shores of Bear Island and did a quick search finding one adult zebra mussel. Live specimens of varying ages and in multiple locations around the lake are still needed to verify Balsam as having an established population. The Balsam Lake Protection and Rehabilitation District, Polk County, and the Wisconsin DNR are assessing the situation and working to determine next steps. With the summer recreational season winding down and docks being removed, please stay alert to anything suspicious attached to a hard surface in Balsam Lake or any other lake. If you do find something please take a picture (similar to the photos of the adult mussel below), collect a specimen, and contact the Polk County Land and Water Resources Department at 715-485-8699. Specimens can be brought to the Land and Water Resources Department at 100 Polk County Plaza - Suite 120, Balsam Lake WI. Note: Since Zebra Mussels firmly attach to surfaces, they are easily crushed if tried to remove. If possible, bring in the mussel while still attached to the hard surface, for example bring in the entire rock it is attached to. If it is attached to a dock, please take multiple photos before trying to remove the specimen. Please keep the specimens in water and a cool environment.