Help Stop the Spread of Invasive Species

 

Boaters, sailors, anglers, paddlers…every time you leave a launch:

• INSPECT boat, trailers and equipment and REMOVE plants, animals, and mud.
• DRAIN water from your boat, motor, bilge, live wells, and bait containers.
• DON'T MOVE live fish away from a waterbody.
• DISPOSE of unwanted bait in the trash.
• RINSE boat and equipment with hot or high pressure water OR dry for at least five days.
• View the "Clean Boats Clean Waters" rack card - pdf.

University of Wisconsin-Extension and the Wisconsin DNR

Campers:

• Leave firewood at home. Buy it within a 50-mile radius of your campsite.
• Burn all wood during your trip.
• Inspect clothing and equipment for seeds, insects, etc. before leaving your camping area.

 

Landowners and gardeners:

• Use native plant species whenever possible.
• Be on the lookout for invasive species.
• Respond aggressively to rid your land of new invasive species.
• Leave native trees and plants alone; natural landscapes offer the best defense.

 

Hikers, bikers, ATV riders, and other recreational users:

• Remember: "Come Clean, Leave Clean."

Before you leave home:

• Make sure your belongings are free of mud and plant debris
• Pack cleaning tools and supplies for your trip (brush or broom, etc.)

Before you leave the trail or site:

• Inspect your pets, belongings, boots, and equipment; remove any mud or plant debris
• Dispose of plant debris and weed seeds in the trash

Aquarium / Pet Owners

• Don't release aquarium fish and plants or other exotic animals into the wild. If you plan to own an exotic pet, do your research and plan ahead to make sure you can commit to looking after it. 
• Like to take your dog for a swim? Make sure to remove plants or animals or any debris that has collected on the dog’s coat before taking the dog home.  At home, wash your dog with clean water and brush its coat.

To learn more about stopping aquatic hitchhikers, visit Protect Your Waters.