DNR Urges Lake Property Owners to Help Prevent Spread of Invasive Species During Fall Cleanup

(KNSI) – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is urging lake property owners to help in preventing the spread of invasive species.

As boats, docks, and other water-related equipment are removed for seasonal storage, the DNR says to inspect them carefully for signs of Eurasian Watermilfoil, starry stonewort and zebra mussels. They say several zebra mussel infestations have been traced back to equipment removed from the water as the organisms can attach to surfaces like docks, lifts, and boat hulls, so they need to be checked during the storage process.

Whether storing equipment on-site or transporting it, the DNR says property owners need to take proactive steps to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species such as keeping docks and boat lifts out of the water for at least 21 days before placing them in a new body of water. This is a state requirement.

Check all parts of equipment, including posts, wheels, underwater support bars, and boat hulls, for signs of invasive species, and if someone is using a lake service provider for installations or removals, make sure they are on the permitted lake service provider business list. These businesses are trained on Minnesota’s aquatic invasive species laws and are equipped to identify and remove harmful organisms.

If equipment can’t be completely cleaned of aquatic plants or invasive species before transport, a no-cost transportation permit can be obtained. Learn more here.

If it is believed an invasive species has been discovered that hasn’t been confirmed in the lake, contact a local DNR aquatic invasive species specialist for further inspection.

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