The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges boaters and anglers to check their boats and equipment for unwanted hitchhikers this holiday weekend to protect Iowa’s lakes and streams. Aquatic invasive species often hitchhike on boats, bait buckets, and other water equipment, posing serious threats to Iowa’s waters and outdoor recreation experiences. Invasive species grow rapidly and spread quickly due to a lack of natural predators. Boaters and anglers can help prevent their spread by cleaning plants, animals, or mud from boats and equipment. They should also drain water from all equipment, including motors, live wells, bilges, transom wells, and bait buckets. Additionally, drying anything that comes into contact with water, such as boats, trailers, equipment, boots, clothing, and even dogs, is critical. This can be done by either spraying with hot or high-pressure water or drying items for at least five days. Never release plants, fish, or animals into a waterbody unless they came from it, and always empty unwanted bait into the trash. Iowa law prohibits possessing or transporting invasive animals or aquatic plants on water-related equipment. For more information on invasive species and a list of infested waters, follow the link included below.
______