As the holiday weekend approaches, many people will be enjoying time on the lakes. However, it’s important to take precautions to prevent invasive species from attaching to your boat. Make sure to thoroughly check your boat before leaving with any new passengers or fish to ensure you’re not inadvertently transporting invasive species to new bodies of water.
As part of the Great Lakes Landing Blitz, which started on June 26 and runs until July 6, all Great Lakes states, not just Wisconsin, are collaborating to educate boaters on the importance of proper cleaning to prevent invasive species from attaching to their boats. The initiative aims to promote awareness and encourage boaters to take the necessary steps to preserve the Great Lakes.
According to Kyle Zimbeo, a DNR Conservation Warden, individuals will be present at a few landings over the upcoming week to educate people on the significance of eradicating plants and animals.
Various species of plants and animals, including lake weed, algae, zebra mussels, Eurasian water milfoil, and pondweed, are known to become invasive. But what causes them to become invasive?
Zimbeo explained that these invasive species spread rapidly once they enter our waters. They are becoming increasingly prevalent in the state, and just like Eurasian water milfoil, it only takes a small piece to transfer to another water body.
According to Zimbeo, the non-native species present in the lake can prove to be a significant threat to the native species. He emphasized that these invasive species have the ability to out-compete the local species, resulting in a substantial cost for the community. One such example is the Eurasian water milfoil, which not only limits boating activities but also makes it almost impossible to fish. Zimbeo stressed that it is essential to manage such species to ensure the safety and well-being of the community and preserve the natural habitat of the lake.
How can we halt the spread of these invasive species? This is the crucial question that needs to be addressed.
Zimbeo advised that in order to prevent the spread of invasive species, it is crucial to take a few extra steps when dealing with your boat trailer. He recommended taking the time to walk around your trailer when it’s out of the water and removing any visible weeds. Additionally, pulling the drain plug and ensuring that all water is drained from the trailer can also help. Simple actions like these can go a long way in protecting our waterways.
It’s important to ensure that any weeds on your trailer are removed to avoid getting a citation, which can be quite costly.
Zimbeo stated that while game wardens are on patrol, they make it a point to stop and check boats being towed by local law enforcement or state patrol. If they happen to spot any weeds on the trailer, they will make contact with the driver and may issue citations if the number of weeds is excessive.