ALPENA–Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed that Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week will occur from June 29 to July 5

The press release states Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Awareness Week raises awareness about the importance of stopping the spread of invasive aquatic plants and organisms.

The DNR states that boaters and anglers are required by law to follow these steps to prevent the spread of AIS:

–Remove all aquatic organisms, including plants, from watercraft and trailers before launching or transporting.

–Remove all drain plugs and drain all water from bilges, ballast tanks, and live wells before transporting a watercraft.

–Dispose of unused bait in the trash, not in the water.

The DNR also recommends additional actions to protect Michigan bodies of water:

–Clean boats, trailers, and equipment by removing plants, debris, and mud before leaving the access area. Dispose of the material in the trash or away from the body of water.

–Wash boats and trailers before leaving the access area, if possible, or at a nearby car wash or at home.

–Dry boats and equipment for five days before launching into a different water body.

–Disinfect live wells and bilges with a bleach solution (1/2 cup bleach to 5 gallons water).

“Preventing the spread of invasive species in our waterways is as simple as cleaning, draining, and drying all boats, trailers, and gear between uses,” Kevin Walters, aquatic biologist with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s (EGLE) water resources division, said in the press release. “AIS Awareness Week is a good reminder that if we all do our part, we can lessen the impact of invasive species in Michigan.”

The DNR also suggests taking photos of invasive species and uploading them to https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/micorps-ais-detection-blitz during AIS Awareness week.