Take Action this Summer to Prevent the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species

July 01, 2024
Land & Water Resources

Take Action this Summer to Prevent the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species

MADISON, WI - July 1, 2024 - As summer begins, the heart of recreational water season does as well. Wisconsin has over 15,000 inland lakes, 43,000 miles of river, and 650 miles of great lake shoreline for citizens to enjoy. Dane County is home to a multitude of these streams, rivers, and lakes, including the Yahara River and Madison Chain, which is a popular destination for people all over Wisconsin and surrounding states.

Through both purposeful and accidental introduction, many aquatic invasive species can be found in Dane County’s waterbodies. Aquatic invasive species are plants or animals that are not native to the area and, when introduced, spread rapidly causing harm to native ecosystems by disrupting native habitats, outcompeting native species, and altering the delicate balance of aquatic life.

These aquatic invasive species can hitchhike on boats, trailers, and recreational equipment, easily spreading from one water body to another. Once a population of an aquatic invasive species has been established, it can be very difficult and expensive to control or remove them.

“Our lakes, river and streams add a great deal to our quality of life here in Dane County,” County Executive Jamie Kuhn said. “We all need to be mindful and do our part to keep them free of invasive species whenever we enjoy them.”

Following protocols to prevent the spread of invasive species is the first and easiest step in protecting our lakes and rivers. Simple actions residents and visitors can take to prevent the unintentional spread of invasive species include:

  1. Brushing plants and debris off boats, trailers, and gear
  2. Draining water from all equipment before leaving the site
  3. Disposing of any bait that has come in contact with the water
  4. Never move plants or live fish away from a waterbody

These simple steps help ensure that water users can spend their time enjoying recreational activities without compromising the health of our water bodies. Dane County and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources have provided signs at most public water access points that remind users of these steps. At some launches, the public can find cleaning stations and equipment to assist in the cleaning process.

Director of Dane County’s Department of Land and Water Resources Laura Hicklin said, “Healthy lakes and rivers are vitally important to Dane County residents and visitors. I appreciate the public’s efforts to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by taking a few minutes to complete a few easy steps after enjoying time on our waterbodies.”

Healthy aquatic ecosystems are important for clean water, recreational opportunities, and support for biodiversity. By preventing the spread of invasive species, water users can help maintain the integrity of these ecosystems and preserve their benefits for current and future generations.

For more information on invasive species protocols and how you can get involved, visit the Dane County invasive species webpage or the Wisconsin DNR aquatic invasive species webpage.

Media Contact:
Pete Jopke Water Resources Planner (608) 228-4202 jopke.peter@danecounty.gov

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About Dane County Land & Water Resources Department
The Dane County Land & Water Resources Department works to protect and enhance Dane County’s natural, cultural, and historic resources. It provides the county’s residents with a broad array of accessible, high quality resource-based recreational services and facilities, and supports residents, communities, local governments and other agencies and organizations in their resource management and protection activities.