New Boating, Fishing Laws Take Effect

boat-2
boat-2

If you boat or fish in Michigan, some new laws go into effect today. Boaters are now required to take steps to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. That includes things like draining all water from any live wells and bilges and ensuring that the watercraft and trailer are free of all aquatic organisms, including plants.

“Some that people might be familiar with are Eurasian watermilfoil, which is an invasive aquatic plant found in some Michigan waterways. Another would be zebra mussels,” says Kevin Walters, an aquatic biologist with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. He says Eurasian watermilfoil can tangle fishing lines and boat motors, and can also change the habitat for fish, frogs and turtles.