Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Labor Day holiday boaters, anglers reminded of steps to avoid spreading invasive species

MADISON -- As anglers and boaters head out for the summer's last big boating hurrah, they are reminded to take a few simple steps to keep Wisconsin lakes and fish healthy for the future.

An online video demonstrates the steps that will keep invasive species such as zebra mussels and Eurasian water milfoil, and the fish disease viral hemorrhagic septicemia, from spreading to new waters.

The primary way that invasive species are spread to new waters is by boat traffic. The invasive species may attach to the boat, become entangled in its propeller or on the boat trailer, or be carried within its bilge or live well. VHS can spread when infected live fish are moved to a new water or in bilge water or live well water carrying with the virus.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: DNR Bureau of Law Enforcement - (608) 266-2141

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