New permit allows faster cleanup of zebra mussels

MADISON, Wis. — A new Wisconsin state permit allows owners of waterfront properties to more easily clean up accumulated zebra mussels, dead fish, algae and other deposits.

The Department of Natural Resources says waterfront property owners will have the same streamlined process that’s been in place for the landowners on the Great Lakes.

People who apply for the new general permit will get a decision within 30 days and the permit would be good for five years. Previously, landowners had to apply for an individual permit, which requires a 30-day public comment period for each application.

DNR waterway science policy coordinator Martye Griffin says people will be able to handle nuisance accumulations quickly and easily without harming the sensitive shoreline areas.

The individual permits that were previously the only option available for waterfront properties on lakes and rivers other than the Great Lakes.