Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are nonnative animals and plants that do not naturally occur in our waters and cause ecological or economic harm. AIS are often extremely small and easily overlooked, spreading mainly by “hitching” rides on watercraft and equipment used by anglers, boaters and others.
Clean In Clean Out
- CLEAN all visible aquatic plants, zebra mussels, and other prohibited invasive species from watercraft, trailers, and water-related equipment before leaving any water access or shoreland.
- DRAIN water-related equipment (boat, ballast tanks, portable bait containers, motor) and drain bilge, livewell and baitwell by removing drain plugs before leaving a water access or shoreline property. Keep drain plugs out and water-draining devices open while transporting watercraft.
- DISPOSE of unwanted bait, including minnows, leeches, and worms, in the trash. It is illegal to release bait into a waterbody or release aquatic animals from one waterbody to another. If you want to keep your bait, you must refill the bait container with bottled or tap water.
Learn more at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website.
Know the Law:
You may not:
- Transport watercraft without removing the drain plug
- Arrive at lake access with drain plug in place
- Transport aquatic plants, zebra mussels, or other prohibited species on any roadway
- Launch a watercraft with prohibited species attached
- Transport water from Minnesota lakes or rivers
- Release bait into the water