Minnesota North Outdoors

Time is nearing when our boats will replace the ice on our favorite lakes and there will be an influx of campers heading to their favorite locations. All this activity increases the chances of transferring alien invaders (invasive species) from one location to another.  We need to be vigilant in our role of protecting our beloved lakes and forests.

The DNR has been actively educating and enforcing laws to stop these invaders, but should it even be necessary? Shouldn't we, the people who love and use our lakes and forests, take it upon ourselves to do this without fear of fines.

I applaud the DNR in their efforts to protect our natural resources, but it is our responsibility to do everything we can to protect the wilderness without consequences. The question is how do we shift the paradigm from regulations that have to be created and enforced to us being vigilant and taking the responsibility for our actions.

We change everything we touch, often times not realizing the effects until they are too late. That is exactly what has occurred around many parts of the world, including Minnesota.

These alien invaders not only attack our waterways, but our forests, wetlands, and any niche that is similar to their home conditions. While not all of these invaders cause problems, many die because they simply cannot adapt to these new conditions. Even though the habitat is similar to their needs, these invaders are just not able to compete and survive.

Those that survive and flourish cause the problems and get the press. These invasive species lack competition and predators that kept them in check in their native locations. With nothing to keep them in check, they spread like the plague and cause problem. These cases are what you read about in press reports and news stories.

What can we do? Make sure you are educated and aware of the rules! Don't be ignorant and think that your actions do not affect the environment. It is that mentality that continues the spread of these species throughout areas that otherwise would not be affected with these organisms.

Below are highlights from the MN DNR website that you should familiarize yourself with before heading out on the water or into the woods this season. 

1. Clean your watercraft and equipment thoroughly, removing any plant or animal life.

2. Drain the water from any and all locations before getting back on the road. Leave the drain plug out!  

3. Dispose of any unwanted bait in the trash. 

If you spent the day in infested water, you need to take extra precautions to eliminate further contamination. 

1. Clean your watercraft and equipment with high pressure hot soapy water.

2. Flush engine and cooling systems thoroughly.

3. Undiluted White Vinegar can be used to kill larve trapped in the bilge lines without fear of harming the pumps, aluminum, connecting hoses, or other fishing equipment.

4. If these options are unavailable dry your watercraft/equipment for at least five days before transferring to the next body of water.

AQUATIC PET OWNERS

Do not release unwanted aquatic plants, fish, and other animals into the wild. What should you do with that once beloved pet? Trade with other aquatic pet owners, or donate to an aquarium, zoo, school or business!

1.Clean your equipment thoroughly before entering or leaving your location.

2. Remove mud, seeds, and other debris from all possible hiding spots. If located later, dispose of by placing it in the trash.

3. Do not transfer firewood, use only local or certified firewood.

4. Use local or certified weed free hay. This is important for livestock or landscaping purposes.

5. Stay on designated trails.

As you get ready for camping and boating, please be vigilant of the increased potential of moving these alien invaders (invasive species) throughout Minnesota and do your best to not be the person who causes the next headline.

RecordingtheOutdoors.com - Todd Koenig