The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is hoping to stop the spread of invasive aquatic species by increasing the number of watercraft checkpoints this summer.

The DNR says it will up the number of checkpoints across the state to 36, doubling the amount from last year.

In addition the DNR is hiring about 150 watercraft inspectors and placing 23 decontamination units at zebra mussel infested waters and lakes with a lot of traffic.

The DNR’s watercraft inspection program is designed to ensure boats and trailers are free of invasive species before they enter or leave the water.