Clean Boats Clean Waters

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.

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

Making your native plant choices for Michigan inland lake shorelines

Published on May 1, 2017
Protecting water quality means protecting inland lake shorelines from erosion and stormwater runoff. Restoring inland lake shorelines means selecting and planting the shoreline with Michigan native plants.
Two Clean Boats, Clean Waters leadership trainings sponsored by Mid-Michigan CISMA

Published on April 3, 2017
Clean Boats, Clean Waters and Mid-Michigan Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area collaborate to host free “Train the Trainer” programs in Ingham and Ionia counties in May.
Planning natural shoreline landscaping on your inland lake

Published on March 30, 2017
Through careful planning, lakeshore landscaping can provide both a finished well-manicured look and adequate erosion protection.
Conference to discuss threats to Michigan inland lakes and streams

Published on March 28, 2017
Michigan Lake and Stream Associations 2017 conference is to be held on Earth Day to focus on the significant threats and management of invasive species of Michigan’s inland lakes and streams.