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

Michigan Department of Natural Resources reports Japanese stiltgrass detected in Michigan

Published on September 12, 2017
Aquatic invasive species super plants! Withstanding acidic soil, variable light conditions, flooding and, multiplying beyond control in a single year.
Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement commitment plan open for public comment

Published on August 24, 2017
Every voice is an important voice. Take this opportunity to weigh in on the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement action plan for phosphorous reduction in Lake Erie.
Aquatic invasive species spread is preventable with a few simple steps

Published on June 13, 2017
Aquatic invasive species control is costly for our state but preventable through clean watercraft and water sport practices
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.