Minnesota DNR K9 Molly Has A Big First Day On The Job

Invasive species are a big problem for our lakes in Minnesota. Every year, more lakes get added to the list of infested lakes. Zebra mussels are one of the worst invasive species, and they can easily spread from lake to lake by hitchhiking on boats.

K9 Units Used To Detect Invasive Species

The DNR has worked to inspect boats, offer cleaning stations, and spread awareness about invasive species. I didn't know they have K9's that can detect invasive species. I saw a post about K9 Molly detecting zebra mussels on a pontoon.

K9 Molly's First Day On The Job

Molly and her handler, Officer Matt Brodin, were working an aquatic invasive species check station on the St. Croix River on May 23rd. It was Molly's first day in the field, and she checked a pontoon that was about to be backed into the water.

Molly detected the scent of zebra mussels, and they found a number of zebra mussels on the pontoon. The DNR staff then decontaminated it before it was allowed to be watched. Not a bad first day, Molly!

Read More: Minnesota DNR Responds To Deer With Bag Stuck On Its Head

Other Roles K9 Officers Have In The DNR

Besides detecting invasive species, these K9 units help find missing persons, gather evidence, and protect Conservation Officers. They have single-purpose dogs and dual-purpose dogs, much like other law enforcement agencies.

Dual-purpose dogs can also be used in criminal apprehension, and can be called up by other law enforcement agencies if they need assistance.