Prevention Tips
Many best practices can be used by boaters, shoreland owners, and lake enthusiasts to help protect and prevent the spread of AIS to new bodies of water throughout our state. Best practices used at the boat access entering and leaving the lake, equipment (docks and lifts), waterfowl hunters, lakeshore owners, and much more. Everyone plays a part and has a responsibility.
This video series consists of six, 30-second public service announcements on actions people can take to stop the spread of AIS.
Entering & Leaving a Boat Access
- Upon arrival to the boat access - make sure the boat plug is removed and NO vegetation is caught / hanging on the trailer.
- Before leaving the boat access:
- Clean off the boat and trailer by removing all plants, mud, debris and organisms from the exterior and interior (including angling equipment, anchors, etc.)
- Visual inspection of the boat and trailer.
- Tactile inspection using your hands and other equipment available.
- Decontamination of the watercraft and/or equipment.
- Drain all water from the boat and other water related equipment, including bait water (replace bait water with fresh water from the vehicle).
- Pull the boat drain plug (must remain out during transport).
- Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.
- Clean off the boat and trailer by removing all plants, mud, debris and organisms from the exterior and interior (including angling equipment, anchors, etc.)
- Before visiting another body of water, should complete one of the following recommended practices:
- Dry the boat and all water related equipment for a minimum of 5 days.
- Wash / power spray the boat (preferably with hot water) to remove and kill any and all plants and organisms.
Waterfowl Hunters
Before & After Hunting:
- CLEAN off plants, mud, and animals from all equipment
- DRAIN all water from the watercraft and water-containing equipment.
- DISPOSE or dry all equipment for at least FIVE days or wipe equipment with a towel.
Additional Tips:
- Non-felt soled boots should be used.
- Emergent vegetation should only be cut above the waterline in accordance with regulations.
- Avoid snagging aquatic plants by using bulb or elliptical-shaped anchors
Items to Check:
(Not Limited to Only These Items)
Boat, Motor, Trailer, Blinds
Waders, Footwear, Push Pole, Decoys
Anchors, Ropes, Bags, Dog Vests, and more
Shoreland Owners
Minnesota law requires docks and boat lifts to be out of the water for at least 21 days before putting them in another body of water.
- Carefully inspect boats, docks, lifts, or other water-related equipment when removing from lakes and rivers for aquatic invasive species (AIS) such as zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, etc. Look around the posts, wheels, and underwater support bars which may have been submerged in water for an extended period of time. Early detection is important in protecting your property and Minnesota’s water resources.
- If you hire a business to install or remove your boat, dock, or lift, or other water-related equipment, make sure they have completed AIS training and are on the DNR’s list of Permitted Service Providers. Lake service providers that have completed the DNR training have experience identifying and removing invasive species.
- If you plan to move a dock, lift or water equipment from one lake or river to another, all visible zebra mussels, faucet snails, and aquatic plants must be removed whether they are dead or alive. You may not transport equipment with prohibited invasive species or aquatic plants attached. The equipment must be out of the water for 21 days before it can be placed in another waterbody.
Report New Infestations
If you suspect a new infestation of an aquatic invasive plant or animal in you lake and not already been confirmed, note the exact location, take a photo or keep the specimen, and contact your area DNR aquatic invasive species specialist.