Aquatic Invasive Species

Aquatic Invasive Species....

  • Are non-native plants, animals, and pathogens

  • Live primarily in water

  • Thrive in a new environment

  • Cause economic loss, environmental damage, and harm to human health

Did you know...

Washington State spends $15 million annually to prevent and control invasive species throughout the state. Some species, like the zebra and quagga mussels, can cost billions of dollars in damages -- impacting your water supply, infrastructure, as well as the environment.

Aquatic invasive species infestations result in a variety of economic and environmental impacts.

They can:

  • Displace, foul and outcompete native species

  • Disrupt entire food webs and decrease native biodiversity

  • Bio-accumulate environmental contaminants and spread toxic algal blooms

  • Attach and damage infrastructure, boats, and water conveyance structures

  • Clog intake structures and impede the flow of water to municipal water supplies, irrigation operations, and power plants

  • Cause long-term taste and odor problems in drinking water

Lake Whatcom hosts boaters from all over Washington and Canada. This extensive use of the lake makes it likely that aquatic invasive species from other locations will hitch a ride on an unsuspecting vessel and end up in our local lakes.

You can help!

To prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, make it part of your regular boating routine to follow these important steps below:

Clean

  • Remove ALL aquatic plants, animals, and mud

  • Thoroughly wash everything

Drain

  • Drain water from your boat, trailer, tackle and gear before leaving the area, including wells, bilge, and engine cooling water

Dry

  • Allow a minimum of 5 days for your boat to dry before launching into other waters

  • If you cannot perform these steps, have your boat professionally cleaned with high-pressure hot water before launching into other waters

Do NOT release pets, bait, aquatic plants, or aquarium water into the wild.


Whatcom Boat Inspections

Inspections are required for all watercraft operating on Lake Whatcom and Lake Samish (BMC 12.12.280 and WCC 2.27A), including non-motorized, hand-carried watercraft, such as canoes and kayaks. Prior to launching, and while operating on both lakes, all watercraft must display a valid aquatic invasive species permit.

Learn more by visiting: www.whatcomboatinspections.com

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