Summer - Gull Chain of Lakes Association

NEW STATE LAWS AIMS TO SLOW SPREAD OF INVASIVE SPECIES
Before the end of the 2011 legislative session and the subsequent state shutdown, legislation aimed at
increasing the state’s ability to fight the spread of invasive species in our lakes and rivers was passed and
signed by the Governor. The new laws apply to boaters, property owners, service providers, bait dealers and
others involved with the transportation of water-related equipment. The law received bipartisan support and
was developed through input from lake associations, angler groups, conservation organizations, businesses,
counties and local governments. The following is a summary of the new law provided by the MN DNR.
Inspections
• Conservation Officers or Licensed Peace Officers may set up check stations at or near water access sites.
• Authorized inspectors can visually and tactilely inspect water related equipment.
• Inspections include the removal, drainage, decontamination, or treatment to prevent the transportation and
spread of aquatic invasive species(AIS), aquatic plants, and water.
• Protocols for decontamination of water-related equipment will be developed utilizing recommendations
outlined in the new law.
• Inspectors may prohibit the launching or operation of water-related equipment if a person refuses to allow
an inspection or does not remove and dispose of AIS, aquatic plants and water.
• Refusing to allow an inspection or follow a removal order may result in a civil citation and a one year
suspension of the watercraft license.
Boating
• All water-related equipment must be drained before leaving any body of water. This includes portable
bait containers. (Anglers who want to keep leftover bait alive should bring fresh water to replace existing
water in bait containers.) Drain plugs must be removed while in transit.
• Transportation of aquatic plants on all roads is prohibited unless specifically exempted. (Previous law only
prohibited transportation on public roads.)
• A criminal citation is allowed for violations involving the transportation of aquatic plants, water and concompliance
with drain plug removal. Fines can be up to $1,000.
• All watercraft owners or operators must obtain an AIS decal issued by the DNR and display the decal on the
watercraft prior to launching, on, entering into, or operating on any waters of the state. After August 1, 2014,
failure to display may result in a citation for a petty misdemeanor.
Property Owners
• Docks, boat lifts, and other water-related equipment that are removed from infested waters and placed on
the riparian property on a seasonal basis or for short-term maintenance purposes can be returned to the
same waters.
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