Protect our waters by following aquatic invasive species (AIS) standards

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, live-well and bait-well by removing drain plugs before leaving a water access or shoreline property. Keep drain plugs out and water-draining devices open while transporting watercraft. Q&A – Boat draining, drain plugs, and bait container draining

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.

Before moving to another waterbody: Spray, Rinse, Dry. Some invasive species are small and difficult to see. To remove or kill them, take one or more of the following precautions before moving to another waterbody, especially after leaving zebra mussel and spiny waterflea infested waters: Spray with high-pressure water, Rinse with very hot water, Dry for at least 5 days.

Anoka County’s AIS Coordinator and a crew of watercraft inspectors will work the waterways seven days a week through Labor Day. View the video (YouTube, Anoka County; 2:00) of watercraft inspectors and boaters working together to keep invasive species out of Anoka County lakes and rivers.