Ron Martin—invasive species management coordinator for the Department of Natural Resources— is encouraged by recent boater surveys. Eighty percent of boaters say they take the necessary steps to prevent the spread of invasive species according to a 2003 survey, up from 39 percent in a similar 1994 survey.

“The vast majority of Wisconsin’s 15,000 lakes and 44,000 miles of streams don’t have the aquatic invasive species,” he says. “But 20 percent of 600,000 boaters not complying is still a problem, and new infestations are a problem. All it takes is a couple of careless boaters and more waterbodies become infested,” Martin stated.

In 2005 zebra mussels and Eurasian water milfoil were documented in 31 new waters, a typical rate of introduction in recent years. More than 160 invasive aquatic species have entered the Great Lakes over the last 150 years and some are spreading to inland waters where they can affect lake ecosystems and hamper recreation. The major way they spread is aboard boats and boat trailers, and in bait buckets and bilge water.

Help stop the Spread

To avoid accidentally transporting invasive species to other waters, before launching a boat and after leaving the boat launch at the end of the day, boaters should:

• Inspect and remove aquatic plants, animals, and mud from boat and equipment before leaving the water;
• Drain water from boat and equipment (motor, bilge, live wells, and bait containers) before leaving the water
• Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash;
• Spray/rinse boats and recreational equipment with high pressure and/or hot tap water;
• Dry boats and equipment thoroughly for at least five days before launching into a different water body.