Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers: Do Your Part
Do you boat or fish? You can unwittingly be responsible for the spread of invasive species that hitchhike on your boat, waders, trailer, boots, etc. or hide in your bait bucket.
- Clean: Remove all visible mud, plants and animals from boats, trailers and gear. This can be done by hand or, better yet, by washing with hot water (140-160 degrees F).
- Drain: Empty all water from bait buckets, live wells, bilges and any other container that may contain lake or river water.
- Dry: Allow boats, trailers and gear to dry thoroughly before moving to another lake or river location. Even if you are unable to clean with hot water, several days of drying will destroy most invasive species.
- Dispose: of plant material and unused bait properly. They can be placed in trash receptacles.
Do not release or flush unwanted aquarium pets. Contact your local pet store, many will take them back.
