BISMARCK – The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, is highlighting the importance of stopping the spread of Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) during the week of May 4-10. ANS Awareness Week in North Dakota is intended to further educate visitors on the potential risk to public health, property and the economy from the negative impacts associated with ANS to ultimately stop the introduction and spread of ANS in the state’s waterways.

Nuisance, or invasive, species are aggressive species that grow and reproduce rapidly, displace native species, and cause significant disturbance to the areas they are present. Park visitors play a vital role in helping prevent the spread of invasive species across North Dakota through some quick and easy tasks:

– Before leaving a body of water, thoroughly clean all equipment such as boats, kayaks, fishing gear, and any other gear that comes into contact with water. Remove all plants, mud, and debris.

– Drain all water from boats, motors, bilges, and live wells before leaving the area.

– Allow all gear to completely dry before using it in another body of water.

– Never release unused bait into the water.

– Learn about the ANS species in the park you’re visiting and follow any guidelines or regulations provided by park staff.

To support these efforts, Lake Metigoshe State Park features a convenient watercraft cleaning station, developed in partnership with the Game and Fish Department. It allows anglers and boaters to easily rinse off equipment and reduce the risk of spreading invasive species. At Grahams Island State Park, an innovative Internet Landing Installed Device Sensor (ILIDS) at the boat ramps detects incoming watercraft and plays a helpful reminder: remove all aquatic plants and animals before and after launching.