How can you prevent transporting invasive aquatic species with your vessel?

Removing all visible debris before leaving is the most effective practice to prevent transporting invasive aquatic species with your vessel. Invasive species often attach themselves to boats, trailers, and other gear; therefore, physically cleaning your equipment is essential. By inspecting and removing any plant material, mud, or organisms that may be clinging to your vessel, you significantly reduce the risk of inadvertently introducing these species to new water bodies.

While thoroughly rinsing your vehicle can help, it may not always effectively remove all organisms, especially those that are well-camouflaged or embedded. Waiting 24 hours before using the vessel again does not guarantee that any remaining invasive species will die off, as some can thrive for extended periods without water. Utilizing chemical treatments could also have harmful effects on the local ecosystem and is not a recommended method for reducing the risk of transporting invasive species. Thus, the emphasis on physically cleaning and removing debris is a proactive measure that helps protect aquatic environments.