PORTAGE, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The Michigan DNR is holding several events for Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week now through Sunday, July 4. Over 54 boating events called Landing Blitz are taking place across the state, including one Thursday at Austin Lake in Portage.
Representatives of state departments and local partners will be on hand to give boaters tips to prevent the spread of harmful species and educate them about recently updated laws. Environmental experts say public awareness about the impacts of harmful, non-native aquatic plants and animals is critical to protecting Michigan’s ecosystems, tourism, and economy.
Protect Michigan waters from the threat of aquatic invasive species by following these simple steps:
Required actions – it’s the law in Michigan
- Remove all aquatic organisms, including plants, from watercraft and trailers before launching or transporting.
- Remove all drain plugs and drain all water from bilges, ballast tanks, and live wells before transporting a watercraft.
- Dispose of unused bait in the trash, not in the water.
Recommended additional actions – protect our waters by following these steps
- Clean boats, trailers, and equipment by removing plants, debris, and mud before leaving the access area.
- Dispose of the material in a trash receptacle or otherwise away from the water body, if possible.
- Wash boats and trailers before leaving the access area, if possible, or at a nearby car wash or at home.
- Dry boats and equipment for five days before launching into a different water body.
- Disinfect live wells and bilges with a bleach solution (1/2 cup bleach to 5 gallons water.)
