Recent monitoring data suggests that boaters and anglers are doing their part to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Monitoring results from 2014 discovered fewer than 10 new lakes with either zebra mussels or spiny water fleas, both of which are problematic
invasive species.
“Even with the increased effort of DNR invasive species monitoring specialists, we are only finding a handful of new lakes with invasive species,” said Tim Campbell, an aquatic invasive species contractor with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. “This suggests that many water users are doing their part in limiting the transport of plant material, water and debris between lakes and rivers.”
To continue preventing or limiting the spread of aquatic invasive species, boaters, paddlers and anglers must:
- INSPECT boats, trailers and equipment.
- REMOVE any attached aquatic plants or animals (before launching, after loading and before transporting on a public highway).
- DRAIN all water from boats, motors and all equipment.
- NEVER MOVE live fish away from a water body.
- DISPOSE of unwanted bait in the trash.
- BUY minnows from a Wisconsin bait dealer. You may take leftover minnows away from any state water and use them again on that same water. You may use leftover minnows on other waters only if no lake or river water or other fish were added to their container.