Remember ‘Clean In, Clean Out’ this Holiday Weekend to Protect Lakes

Fourth of July weekend is upon us and it is historically one of the busiest weekends of the year for boating and fishing.  With that in mind, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources wants to remind us to take a little extra time to ensure boats and equipment are clean going in and clean coming out of lakes and rivers to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.

“Clean In, Clean Out” zones are stenciled onto special areas at many accesses where boaters can pull off and make sure they aren’t transporting aquatic invasive species.

Remember, all boaters and anglers are required to:

• Clean their watercraft of aquatic plants and prohibited invasive species.
• Drain all water by removing drain plugs and keeping them out during transport.
• Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.

With increased water traffic expected for the holiday weekend, it may take a little longer to go through a decontamination station, but it is the best way to be thorough.  Therefore, patience will be greatly appreciated this weekend.

There are also more watercraft inspectors checking to ensure that boaters and anglers follow clean, drain, dispose laws and may deny access if necessary.

To brush on on related laws and the decontamination process, including a 30-second public service announcement about stopping the spread of aquatic invasive species, just use the link below.

Have a great and safe Fourth Of July weekend!