Wisconsin: Clean Boats, Clean Waters Inspectors at Work

MADISON, Wis. – Wisconsin residents and visitors that are passionate about protecting waters from aquatic invasive species know the impact they can have on state waters and native species. For nearly 15 years Clean Boats, Clean Waters (CBCW) boat inspectors and educators have met boaters at lake and river launches to remind them that by taking simple preventative steps, they play a vital role. This summer, hundreds of launches will be staffed as usual by these friendly folks in their blue CBCW T-shirts, but most will also have on a cloth CBCW mask and maintain physical distancing.

“We know that the prevention guidance of inspect, remove, drain, never move is effective at preventing the spread of invasive aquatic plants and animals,” said Erin McFarlane, the Statewide CBCW Educator with the University of Wisconsin-Extension Lakes Program. “Taking a minute or two to remove all the plants, animals, mud and debris from your boat and trailer while draining water from the bilge and live well is all it takes to prevent a new invasive species from establishing in your favorite lake or river.”

Surveys of Wisconsin boaters and anglers show that most boaters perform these actions nearly every time they are on the water. However, infrequent boaters may not be aware of the prevention steps and even frequent boaters might forget. McFarlane notes that if CBCW staff are not at a launch, boaters can support each other by modeling good prevention behavior.

“Every boater and angler have a role to play in protecting our lakes and rivers,” she said. “We’re thankful for people currently doing their part.”

There are some changes to the special CBCW campaigns. Ice packs are normally offered to anglers and boaters in early June during the Drain Campaign to remind anglers to drain all water out of livewells and buckets before leaving the launch area. Similarly, boat towels with the “Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers!” campaign logo are typically given out during the annual Landing Blitz held during the week of July Fourth. For the health of the boat inspectors and the public they interact with, program coordinators are recommending that these free reminders not be given out this summer.

The campaigns have been merged and will take place statewide from now through July 5. Boat inspectors will still share the AIS prevention message and help boaters learn where to look for hidden invasive species on their watercraft and equipment while following safety guidelines to keep themselves and the public safe. Participation in CBCW inspections is voluntary and can take place unless the launch is in an area where local restrictions or personal safety concerns prevent it.

For the second year, Wisconsin’s campaigns are aligned with the Great Lakes Region Landing Blitz in all the Great Lakes states and provinces. Many are setting up virtual events. Check out the Great Lakes Aquatic Invasive Species Landing Blitz here: www.glc.org/work/blitz

Lastly, remember:

• Inspect boats, trailers and equipment for attached aquatic plants or animals.
• Remove all attached plants or animals
• Drain all water from boats, motors, livewells and other equipment
• Never move live fish away from a waterbody
• Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash
• Buy minnows from a Wisconsin bait dealer
• Only use leftover minnows when either 1) fishing with them on the same body of water or 2) on other waters if no lake/river water or other fish have been added to the container.

Following these steps helps boaters comply with Wisconsin state law, which prohibits the transport of aquatic invasive species. To learn more about invasive species and their impacts to Wisconsin’s waters and economy, visit dnr.wi.gov and search “Invasive Species.”