Boating and fishing on lakes and rivers is a treasured Minnesota pastime. Protecting these lakes and rivers from invasive plants and animals requires us all to use extra care when hauling boats from one lake to another this summer, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
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 invasive species get from one lake or river to another by hitching a ride with anglers, boaters and other outdoor recreationists. These aquatic hitchhikers have invaded many waters, doing irreparable harm to lakes, streams, and wetlands and their native inhabitants.
The good news is most of Minnesota’s lakes and rivers are not overrun with invasive species. Let’s keep it that way.
People who suspect a new infestation of an invasive species should save a specimen and report it to a local DNR or Sea Grant office.
More information is available at www.mndnr.gov.
Here are a few simple things people can do
to help prevent the spread of invasives:
• Before leaving a water access, remove aquatic plants, animals and mud from boat, trailer and equipment.
• Drain water from boat, motor, live wells, bilge, and bait buckets before leaving water access.
• Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash. Even earthworms used for bait are invasive and should not be dumped on
the ground.
• 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.
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