Invasive Species

An invasive species can be any kind of living organism—an amphibian, plant, insect, fish, fungus, bacteria, or even an organism's seeds or eggs—that is not native to an ecosystem and causes harm. They can harm the environment, the economy, or even human health. (NFWF)

How to Prevent the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species

Required actions – It’s the law in Michigan

  • Remove aquatic plants from boats, boating equipment and boat trailers before launching or placing in the water.

  • Drain live wells, bilges and all water from boats before leaving the access site.

  • Dispose of unused bait in the trash. Do not release bait into the water.

  • Don’t transfer fish to water bodies other than where they were caught.

Recommended actions – Protect our waters

  • Inspect and remove plants and mud from boats and trailers and dry equipment before leaving the access area. Dispose of the material in a trash receptacle or otherwise away from the water body if possible.

  • Wash boats and trailers before leaving the access area if possible, or at a nearby car wash or at home.

  • Dry boats and equipment for at least five days before launching into a different body of water.

  • Disinfect live wells and bilges with bleach solution of 1/2 cup bleach to 5 gallons of water.

  • RIPPLE (Reduce Invasive Pet and Plant Escapes)

Report Invasive Sightings

 
 
 

EGLE Minute Series - Invasive Species

 

Invasives in the News

Michigan Aquatic Invasive Species Watch List (michigan.gov)

For more information about these and other invasive species of concern in Michigan, visit michigan.gov/invasives