A Freshwater Mussel Survey of the Shingobee River Cass and Hubbard Counties, Minnesota

Abstract

A freshwater mussel survey of the Shingobee River was conducted in September, 2000, in order to determine the status of Lasmigona compressa, a Regional Forester Sensitive Species and Minnesota Species of Special Concern. Approximately 6.5 miles of the Shingobee River was surveyed from the mouth at Leech Lake upstream to the large beaver pond approximately 0.75 miles downstream of Shingobee Lake. One Pyganodon grandis was found within the survey area. No mussel beds were found in the survey area. One Lasmigona compressa and 35 Lampsilis radiata siliquiodea were found upstream of Shingobee Lake after the initial survey was completed. Water and sediment samples were collected at four sites along the length of the river. Water samples were analyzed for temperature, pH, specific conductance, alkalinity, hardness, total phosphorus, total ammonium nitrogen (TAN), nitrate + nitrite nitrogen, turbidity, calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium. Sediment samples were analyzed for temperature, pH, TAN and un-ionized ammonia. Evidence exists for a recent decline in mussel abundance and diversity in the river. Potential causes for this decline are discussed.