Round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) found in the Rouge River, photo credit Robert Muller.

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.

Zebra mussels have microscopic larvae that can attach to your boat.

• 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.

Red swamp crayfish found in the Rouge  in 2017, either dumped by an aquarium enthusiast or purchased for food and dumped. The pond is now home to over 2,000 of these animals.

Giant goldfish found in Rouge.