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Stepped up Aquatic Invasive Species Enforcement Starting This Weekend
News Release Published: August 25, 2009 by the Northern Region
Contact(s): John Preuss (715) 889-0593
RHINELANDER - DNR’s Northern Region conservation wardens will be on the lookout at boat landings this weekend (August 28-30) enforcing laws that prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species such as Eurasian Water Milfoil and zebra mussels and the fish disease Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS). These invasive species have the potential to destroy fishing and boating opportunities if gone unchecked.
“Eurasian Water Milfoil and other aquatic invasive species can hamper recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, hunting and swimming,” said Deputy Conservation Warden John Preuss, Woodruff.
“Many of these species travel from an infected lake to a non-infected lake in boat livewells or as a fragment of Eurasian Water Milfoil on a trailer. Zebra mussels and spiny water fleas are extremely small and can be transported in the smallest amount of water. It is the responsibility of the individual boater and angler to take the proper steps to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species.”
Preuss added that rules enacted to prevent the spread of destructive invasive species have been well publicized throughout the state via many media outlets, and that most people should be well aware of the law. Anglers and boaters failing to comply may receive a citation.
Laws to prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species and VHS fish disease have been around for several years. “These are not new laws,” Preuss said. “Launching a boat with aquatic vegetation attached carries a fine of more than $150 .The fine for failing to drain water from your boat starts at more than $200.“
In the past, wardens have emphasized education over citation writing because the laws were relatively new. “In the end, we all want the same thing – clean, healthy beautiful lakes and rivers. Education will remain a crucial role in the fight against invasive species, but enforcement will make up a larger role, according to Preuss.
“We appreciate the many anglers, boaters, lake associations, and fishing tournament organizers that have supported Aquatic Invasive Species laws. With their help we are protecting Wisconsin’s lakes and rivers for our grandkids,” he said.
In order to prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species and VHS, these rules need to be followed:
- Inspect and remove all aquatic plants, animals, and mud from boat and equipment
- Drain all water from livewells, transom well, motors and bilges before leaving boat landing
- Do not move live fish away from a lake or its shores (includes shore fishermen)
- Only reuse minnows under certain conditions
For more information on aquatic invasive species, the fish disease VHS, and rules to prevent these invaders’ spread, go online to VHS and You: Keeping Wisconsin's Waters Healthy.
