The Lead Off
- Michigan officials are urging boaters and anglers to take precautions to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species
- The reminder comes as Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week begins Sunday
- Volunteers will be stationed at boat launches statewide to educate the public on prevention steps
LANSING, MICH. (WOWO) State officials are reminding boaters and anglers to take steps to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species as Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week begins Sunday across Michigan.
Officials say invasive plants and animals can easily be transported on boats, trailers, and fishing gear, posing a threat to the state’s lakes and rivers according to News 10 Lansing.
Education efforts planned at boat launches
Throughout the week, volunteers will be present at boat launches across Michigan to provide education and resources to recreational boaters.
The outreach campaign is designed to raise awareness about how invasive species spread and what individuals can do to reduce the risk while using state waterways.
Officials say prevention efforts are key to protecting aquatic ecosystems and maintaining water quality.
State law requires cleaning and draining boats
Michigan law requires boaters to take specific actions before leaving a boat launch to reduce the spread of invasive species.
Those requirements include:
- Removing all aquatic plants and animals from boats and trailers
- Draining all water by removing drain plugs before leaving a launch
- Disposing of unused bait in the trash
Officials say compliance with these steps is essential to limiting the movement of invasive species between water bodies.
Additional prevention recommendations
In addition to legal requirements, officials are encouraging boaters to take further precautions when moving between waterways.
Recommended steps include:
- Washing boats and trailers before launching into a different body of water
- Allowing boats and equipment to dry for at least five days before reuse in another waterway
- Disinfecting live wells and bilges using a bleach solution
Officials say these measures can further reduce the risk of spreading invasive species that can damage native ecosystems.
Next steps
The awareness campaign will continue throughout Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week, with ongoing outreach at boat launches and continued emphasis on compliance with state boating regulations.
The Takeaway
Statewide prevention push underway
Michigan officials are urging boaters and anglers to follow cleaning and draining guidelines as Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week begins.
Laws and recommendations emphasized
State law requires removal of plants, draining of water, and proper disposal of bait, while officials also recommend washing and drying equipment between uses.
Ongoing education efforts planned
Volunteers will be stationed at boat launches throughout the week to educate the public on preventing the spread of invasive species in Michigan waterways.
