Boating and fishing on lakes and rivers is a treasured Minnesota pastime. Protecting these lakes and rivers from invasive plants and animals requires everyone to use extra care when hauling boats from one lake to another this summer.
Aquatic invaders such as zebra mussels and Eurasian watermilfoil threaten our valuable waters and recreation. Invasive species are usually nonnative, or "exotic," plants and animals. They are called invasive species because they cause ecological or economic harm.
Most often, invasives get from one lake or river to another by hitching a ride with anglers, boaters and other outdoor recreationists.
Here are a few simple things people can do to help prevent their spread:
n Before leaving a water access, remove aquatic plants, animals and mud from boat, trailer and equipment.
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n Drain water from boat, motor, live wells, bilge and bait buckets before leaving water access.
n Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash. Even earthworms used for bait are invasive and should not be dumped on the ground.
n Before going to another lake, wash boat and recreational equipment with high pressure or hot (104 degrees or higher) water to kill harmful species or dry the boat and equipment for at least five days.
Info: mndnr.gov.
