What You and Your Guests can do to Help Prevent the Spread of AIS
Many Itasca County local lakes and rivers now include zebra mussels, starry stonewort, or other aquatic invasive species (AIS). You can see the Itasca County infested lakes at:
Fortunately, the Wabana Chain is NOT one of them. WCOLA and Wabana Township have helped fund the public-access inspection program that helps prevent AIS from spreading, but inspectors can’t be at the landings 24/7. Public landings are only one entry path among many. We all have a prevention role … property owners, guests, recreational boaters, anglers, visitors, and the businesses that serve us, including resorts, camps, campgrounds, lake service providers, bait shops, and marine dealers. You and your guests can help!
AIS are not moved by waterfowl or other wildlife. They’re moved by us. We move AIS from one lake or river to another, via boats, trailers, bilge, live well, bait water, fishing and other water gear, docks, lifts, swim rafts, float planes, and recreational gear. Please take time to read carefully: Clean, Drain, and Dry your boats and equipment as you move from one body of water to another. Also remember to properly dispose of your extra bait as you leave each body of water. Put the bait in the trash receptacle at the landing.
Another tool to help stop the spread of AIS is a Boat Wash Station. Through your generosity and donations, WCOLA, in partnership with Wabana Township, has purchased a hot-water boat wash station that will be located at the Wabana Township Hall.
Learn more on how to Protect Our Lakes here.
