Since 2006 the Clean Boats, Clean Waters program has been educating Michigan boaters about aquatic invasive species with trained volunteer boat inspectors. New funding from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative has enabled Clean Boats, Clean Waters to grow into a comprehensive aquatic invasive species boater outreach program. The program’s mission remains the same: to prevent new aquatic invasive species introductions and limit their dispersal from water recreation activities through outreach and engagement. The reinvented Clean Boats, Clean Waters program promotes understanding of boat cleaning practices and regulations through the distribution of educational materials, an online resource library, boat washing demonstrations, grants and partnerships.
Michigan State University Extension is leading the effort to refresh and implement the new Clean Boats, Clean Waters program in cooperation with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. The reinvented Clean Boats, Clean Waters program builds upon existing partnerships with statewide and local partners including the Michigan Lakes and Streams Association, Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas and lake associations and is actively seeking new opportunities and partnerships to share the clean, drain, dry message.
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Preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species is easy
- CLEAN boats, trailers and equipment.
- DRAIN live wells, bilges, ballast tanks, and all water by pulling drain plugs.
- DRY boats and equipment.
- DISPOSE of unwanted bait in the trash.
Learn how to identify and report aquatic invasive species through the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network.
Aquatic Invasive Species News from MSU Extension
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Granting change: Small grants empowering Michigan communities
Published on June 6, 2025
The Clean Boats, Clean Waters program awards $35,000 to twelve conservation groups to educate and empower their local communities in preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species, while actively engaging with boaters and anglers. -
Aquatic invasive species decontamination stations help boaters and anglers know the regulations and aid in cleaning off their boats and gear
Published on August 12, 2024
Request a sign through the Clean Boats, Clean Waters program. -
Michigan Clean Boats, Clean Waters program awards $35,000 to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species
Published on April 15, 2024
Thirteen projects receive grant funding to educate boaters and anglers on the importance of cleaning, draining, and drying their equipment to protect lakes and rivers. -
Invasive hydrilla, a “monster aquatic weed,” discovered for the first time in Michigan waters
Published on October 3, 2023
Here’s how to prevent the spread of invasive hydrilla.
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