Governor Walz proclaims: “Clean Drain Dry Day” for Minnesota fishing opener

To celebrate Minnesota’s fishing opener, Governor Tim Walz declares, Clean Drain Dry Day spotlighting invasive species and how all boaters and anglers can help preserve a robust fishing pastime and state economy. Home to 1.4 million anglers, fishing in Minnesota generates over $2.6 billion of economic activity and supports over 26,000 jobs. That’s right, 26,000 jobs.

Invasive species are a direct serious threat now to local economies and recreationists accessing public waters. Preventing and managing the spread of harmful invasive species is up to everyone.

Cook County AIS Program, along with Wildlife Forever applauds the many partners combating invasive species from soil and watershed conservation districts, lake associations, county, state and federal agencies along with non-governmental organizations united under a common theme of Clean Drain Dry.

Here’s one simple directive for all bait anglers: Trash unused bait! If keeping minnows and leeches, bring fresh water from home to transport. Nonnative minnows and worms can do serious harm on land and in the water. Working with partners across the state, Wildlife Forever coordinates statewide public outreach and educational efforts to prevent the spread of invasive species.

“Clean Drain Dry Day is a great opportunity and reminder for people to follow the steps of cleaning all equipment and gear to prevent accidental spread of invasive species,” said Amanda Weberg, AIS coordinator.

“I’m happy to see Governor Walz recognizing the treasure our lakes and rivers are in supporting Cook County and the Minnesota way of life,” said Pat Conzemius, president and CEO of Wildlife Forever.

This year, Albert Lea is host for the 2019 Governor’s Fishing Opener. From Albert Lea, to Lake of the Woods, partners across the state plan to send a strong Clean Drain Dry message this spring with highway billboards, sidewalk boards, posters and handouts to the public. Wildlife Forever would like to remind all boaters, anglers, property owners and businesses to spread the Clean Drain Dry message and protect our local waters from invasive species. Do your part this fishing and boating season: Clean. Drain. Dry. all boats, trailers and gear.