We all know who will lose in a state shutdown over the budget deficit: state workers, those receiving state services, vendors, contractors and politicians’ reputations.
But WDAY-TV in Fargo says Zebra mussels — those invasive aquatic pests which are finding their way into state lakes — will come out ahead:
The mussels stick to anything hard like docks, boats and other shell fish. The Minnesota DNR wants to hire 20 new watercraft inspectors to prevent the spread of AIS, but they can’t until the budget crisis is resolved. Resorts have noticed zebra mussels by the thousands on Pelican Lake.
Larry Kohler — Resort Owner on Pelican Lake: “And now this year, there are more of them, like the swim area here, children have been in there, and get bruises on the bottom of their feet from the sharp edges.”
Currently, the DNR has 100 watercraft inspectors at select Minnesota lakes.
Let’s not forget the drunk drivers who will avoid detection over the 4th weekend, while state troopers enjoy the holiday with their families. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for those who will be killed or injured by those same drivers.