How to Clean Your Boat to Help Limit the Spread of Invasive Species in Cannon Township

In Cannon Township we are a historic rural community that has A LOT of lakes and trails. And we want our natural resources to be enjoyed for many generations to come and keep our property values by having healthy lakes and streams.

One popular summer activity is boating. In our community, most boats do not go from lake to lake, but when you do transfer your boat or kayak from one lake to another it carries the risk of spreading invasive species, which can wreak havoc on aquatic ecosystems. These invasive species often hitch a ride on boats and equipment, leading to ecological and economic damage. To protect our waters, it’s crucial to clean your boat properly. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to do just that.

Why It Matters

Invasive species such as zebra mussels and Eurasian watermilfoil can severely impact native species, water quality, and the overall health of aquatic ecosystems. By cleaning your boat, you help prevent the spread of these harmful organisms.

Steps to Properly Clean Your Boat

1. Inspect and Remove

- Inspect your boat: Before leaving the water, thoroughly inspect your boat, trailer, and equipment for any visible plants, animals, or mud.

- Remove all debris: Use a brush or your hands to remove any attached debris. Pay close attention to the hull, propeller, anchor, and any other equipment that was in the water.

2. Drain and Dry

- Drain all water: Empty all water from the boat, including the bilge, live wells, ballast tanks, and any other compartments. Invasive species can survive in even small amounts of water.

- Dry thoroughly: Allow your boat and equipment to dry completely before launching into another body of water. Drying times can vary depending on the weather, but aim for at least five days. Sunlight and wind can help speed up this process.

3. Clean and Disinfect

- High-pressure rinse: Use a high-pressure hose to rinse your boat and equipment. Focus on areas where invasive species are likely to hide, such as the underside of the boat and trailer.

- Hot water wash: If possible, wash your boat with hot water (at least 140°F). Hot water is effective at killing many types of invasive species.

- Disinfect: Use a diluted bleach solution (5% household bleach) to disinfect your boat and equipment. Apply the solution and let it sit for at least 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with clean water.

4. Additional Considerations

- Clean your gear: Don’t forget to clean your fishing gear, life jackets, and other equipment that came into contact with the water.

- Check local regulations: Some areas have specific requirements for cleaning boats to prevent the spread of invasive species. Check local guidelines and comply with them.

Here’s some helpful resources from MSU.

Best Practices for Regular Maintenance

- Frequent inspections: Make inspecting and cleaning your boat a regular part of your boating routine.

- Education: Educate yourself and others about the importance of preventing the spread of invasive species. Share this knowledge with fellow boaters.

- Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with local and national efforts to combat invasive species. Participate in community clean-up events and initiatives.

Cleaning your boat to limit the spread of invasive species is a small but significant action that can have a profound impact on protecting our waterways. By following these steps, you help preserve the health and beauty of our aquatic environments for future generations to enjoy. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that our lakes, rivers, and oceans remain vibrant and thriving.

Let’s all do our part to keep invasive species at bay. Happy boating!

August 7th Kelsey Bockelman | Aquatic Invasive Species Educator from Michigan State University Extension will be doing a boat washing demo in Cannon Township. It is being geared towards kids, if you or someone you know is interested in attending send me a message here.

My Passion for our Waterways

I sit on the Lake Wellness Committee for Bostwick Lake and the Invasive Species & Wetlands Committee for Cannon Township. I am a lifetime member of the Michigan Lakes and Streams Association and recently completed a Michigan State University Extension Course on Introduction to Lakes and Streams. Taking care of our natural resources is important to me, not only for our property values in Cannon Township, but so that our lakes and streams can be enjoyed for many generations to come.

I am not an expert, but I have many mentors and friends from various backgrounds whom I learn to understand the importance of taking care of our waterways. If you’re interested in talking about our watersheds, please send me a message; I’d love to connect.