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June 30, 2016 - For immediate release
Media contacts: Melanie Manion, Ottawa County Parks: (616) 738-4810

Aquatic Invasive Species Landing Blitz: Focuses on Protecting Lakes

Citizen volunteers and aquatic invasive species experts will team up to educate boaters about preventing the spread of harmful species during Michigan’s 3rd Annual Aquatic Invasive Species Landing Blitz on July 1 through July 10, 2016, at boat landings around the state.  The Landing Blitz is sponsored by the Michigan Departments of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Natural Resources, and Agriculture and Rural Development in partnership with local organizations as part of Michigan’s annual Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week.

The event is a collaborative outreach campaign to raise awareness about preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) through recreational boating and related activities. This year’s Landing Blitz will build on the previous events.  Local volunteer partners will deliver consistent messaging about preventing the introduction and spread of AIS from the movement of watercraft and equipment between water bodies at both public and private boating access sites throughout the state.

Boaters will learn simple steps they can take to help prevent the spread of unwanted aquatic plants and animals such as Eurasian watermilfoil and zebra mussels by cleaning, draining, and drying boats and equipment.

Aquatic invasive species crowd out native species, disrupt lake ecosystems, and interfere with boating, fishing, and other recreation.  Boaters can unknowingly transfer invasive species and fish diseases, such as viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS), to new waters when they don't clean boats, trailers, and other recreational equipment.  To prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species and protect Michigan’s aquatic resources, boaters, anglers, and others enjoying Michigan’s waters are required to:

• Remove aquatic plants from boats, boating equipment, and boat trailers before launching a boat.
• Drain live wells, bilges, and all water from boats before leaving a boating access site.
• Dispose of unused bait in the trash.  Do not release bait into the water.
• Never transfer fish to water bodies other than where they were caught.

Locally, the Landing Blitz will be conducted at Riverside Park (Grand Haven) on the follow days by Ottawa County Parks:

• July 2 and 3 from 8 am - 12 pm
• July 9 and 10 from 12 - 4 pm

For more information about aquatic invasive species in Michigan can visit: www.michigan.gov/InvasiveSpecies

Those looking for a more in-depth training on identifying aquatic invasive plant species as well as what you can do to protect our inland lake ecosystems, can participate in a special program offered by the West Michigan Cluster of the Stewardship Network. Participants will learn how to spot suspected invaders, become familiar with a few common native plants and practice the skills needed to be an effective early detector. This workshop includes both a classroom and field component so dress appropriately.

Educational Materials Required! Michigan Natural Features Inventory's "A Field Guide to Invasive Plants of Aquatic and Wetland Habitats for Michigan" will be available for purchase for $12.00 (cash only) at the workshop. Learn more by clicking here. 

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