MISSOULA – Invasive species is a phrase you hear often when temperatures begin to climb and people start getting outside and recreating in the beautiful waters of Montana.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks found zebra mussels on the outboard motor of a boat on its way to Alberta, Canada from Wisconsin. It’s the fifth boat with these mussels to be stopped so far this year.
Because of this FWP is reminding people to Clean, Drain and Dry their watercraft and equipment. Boaters need to inspect their gear and to pay attention to areas that invasive species could hide.
Anyone with watercraft wmust stop at an inspection station. Click here for a list of FWP inspection stations.
More information about the efforts to prevent invasive water species can be found on the FWP website including the following information:
CLEAN
- Completely remove all mud, water, and vegetation before leaving the access area.
- Inspect your boat, trailer, and all gear. Pay attention to crevices and hidden areas.
- Remove all vegetation (by hand or sprayer).
- Remove all mud (use a pressurized power sprayer, found at most do-it-yourself car washes). The hot water kills organisms and the pressure removes mud and vegetation. No need to use chemicals or soap.
- Dispose of debris in trash or on dry land away from water or ramp.
DRAIN
- Drain all water from watercraft and equipment.
- Drain or remove water from boat, bilge, live well, engine, internal compartments, and bait buckets by removing drain plugs before leaving the access area.
DRY
- Aquatic invaders can survive only in water and wet areas.
- Dry your watercraft and fishing equipment thoroughly; this will kill most invasive species.
- The longer you keep your watercraft, trailer, waders, and other equipment outside in the hot sun between fishing trips, the better.
