WEST MICHIGAN — Lots of boaters are expected to hit the water this weekend ahead of the 4th of July holiday and experts say it’s important to be responsible and protect our lakes from invasive species.
Michigan’s 3rd Annual Aquatic Invasive Species Landing Blitz is taking place at boat landings around the state July 1-10.
Organizers are hoping with proper education things like Eurasian watermilfoil and zebra mussels stay out if the water.
Aquatic invasive species crowd out native species, disrupt lake ecosystems, and interfere with boating, fishing, and other recreation, according to a press release from officials at Ottawa County Parks. The statement also noted boaters can unknowingly transfer invasive species and fish diseases, such as viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS), to new waters when they don’t clean boats, trailers, and other recreational equipment.
Courtesy of the Aquatic Invasive Species Landing Blitz
Here are some helpful tips to help keep the water clean and safe for all to enjoy:
• Remove aquatic plants from boats, boating equipment, and boat trailers before launching a boat.
• Drain live wells, bilges, and all water from boats before leaving a boating access site.
• Dispose of unused bait in the trash. Do not release bait into the water.
• Never transfer fish to water bodies other than where they were caught.
The Landing Blitz will be at Riverside Park in Grand Haven:
• July 2 and 3 from 8 am – 12 pm
• July 9 and 10 from 12 – 4 pm
The Landing Blitz is sponsored by the Michigan Departments of Environmental Quality, Natural Resources, and Agriculture and Rural Development in partnership with local organizations as part of Michigan’s annual Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week.
Officials at Ottawa Parks say the West Michigan Stewardship Network is inviting community members to learn more about protecting the ecosystem by participating in a special program. To find out more click here.
For more information about how you can help protect our lakes click here.
