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Bismarck, N.D. (AP) North Dakota wildlife officials plan to set up check stations in popular duck hunting sites during the waterfowl hunting season to help guard against zebra mussels.

The striped shellfish that is considered a nuisance species recently was found in northwestern Minnesota, and the North Dakota Game and Fish Department is trying to stem further spread of the mussels west.

Lynn Schlueter, the aquatic nuisance species coordinator for the department, says the lake where the mussels were found in Minnesota is a popular destination for many North Dakotans.

North Dakota boaters and hunters are required to take certain steps to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species, such as removing vegetation from boats and cleaning hunting equipment such as decoys. The check stations are aimed at ensuring they comply.

Enforcement Chief Robert Timian says violators will be cited.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 09-24-09 1041CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list