When nice weather finally hits, Minnesotans like to hit the lakes. But the Department of Natural Resources is warning boaters not to spread invasive species this summer.

DNR invasive species program supervisor, Heidi Wolf says pesky plants like Starry Stonewort have already invaded 13 lakes in Minnesota and they are making sure it doesn’t spread to any more. The DNR is trying to control the spread in a variety of methods including hand removal, herbicide treatments, learning more about the biology of starry stonewort, working with lake associations and volunteer groups for early detection and monitoring, and educating boaters and anglers about how to prevent spreading starry stonewort and other invasive species. 

The DNR reminds boaters and anglers to follow Minnesota laws to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species:

• Clean aquatic plants and animals from watercraft.
• Drain all water by removing drain plugs and keep drain plugs out while transporting watercraft.
• Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.

Some invasive species are small and difficult to see at the access. To remove or kill them, take one or more of the following precautions before moving to another waterbody, especially after leaving infested waters:     

• Spray with high-pressure water.
• Rinse with very hot water (120 degrees for at least two minutes or 140 degrees for at least 10 seconds).
• Dry for at least five days.

Details about starry stonewort and other aquatic invasive species are available atmndnr.gov/ais.