The spread of zebra mussels in Lake Winnipeg has extended to its north basin, with the invasive aquatic species now found near George Island.

One zebra mussel veliger, an early-stage mussel, was found in a single water sample collected southeast of the island this fall, Manitoba Conservation announced late Thursday.

Zebra mussels have been found not only in the lake, but also in the Red River in Manitoba and in Cedar Lake west of Grand Rapids.

The province is reminding Manitobans to help curb the spread of zebra mussels by cleaning off any visible plants, mud or animals from any watercraft or equipment that's in any body of water.