×

Outreach events to mark Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week

More than 70 boat landing events are planned across Michigan to mark this year’s Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week, July 3-9. Public awareness about the impacts of harmful, nonnative aquatic plants and animals is critical to protecting Michigan’s ecosystems, tourism and economy.

The boat landing events are part of the ninth annual Landing Blitz, where representatives of state departments and local partners such as lake associations and cooperative invasive species management areas give boaters tips to prevent the spread of invasive species and comply with recently updated laws.

Residents can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by following these simple steps:

∫ 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.

Recommended additional actions

∫ Clean boats, trailers and equipment by removing plants, debris, and mud before leaving the access area. Dispose of the material in a trash receptacle or otherwise away from the water body, if possible.

∫ 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).

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today