Environment & Natural Resources
Invasive Species
When boating or fishing in Minnesota, protect your waters by following state aquatic invasive species (AIS) laws.
Remember! Clean, Drain, Dispose.
- Clean all visible aquatic plants, zebra mussels, and other prohibited invasive species from watercraft, trailers, and water-related equipment before leaving any water access or shoreland.
- Drain water-related equipment (boat, ballast tanks, portable bait containers, motor) and drain bilge, live well and bait well by removing drain plugs before leaving a water access or shoreline property. Keep drain plugs out and water-draining devices open while transporting watercraft.
- Dispose of unwanted bait, including minnows, leeches, and worms, in the trash. It is illegal to release bait into a water body or release aquatic animals from one water body to another. If you want to keep your bait, you must refill the bait container with bottled or tap water.