Water Quality > Nonpoint Pollution > Clean, Green Boating > Aquatic Invasive Species

Aquatic Invasive Species

Aquatic invasive animals and plants pose a serious threat to the biological diversity of our waters.

Invasive species threaten Washington’s economy, recreational opportunities, natural resources, and even human health.

To reduce the threats of aquatic invasive species please do the following:

• Rinse anchors and anchor chains during retrieval to remove organisms and sediments at their place of origin.
• Remove fouling organisms from hull, piping, and tanks on a regular basis and dispose of any removed substances in accordance with local, state and federal regulations.
• Do not dump bait and live well water. Those both pose significant threats.
• Clean all watercraft and fishing equipment. Even the kayaker or jet skier should clean their watercraft to stop the spread of invasive species.

For more information contact:

• Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office - Invasive Species Council at http://www.InvasiveSpecies.wa.gov
• Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife at http://wdfw.wa.gov/ais/search.php?id=5
• Washington Department of Ecology at http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/links/plants.html