Minnesota considers invasive-species training for boaters

Posted on 06 February 2012

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Minnesota's 800,000 boat owners would have to pass a course on how to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species before they could trailer their boats anywhere under a bill proposed by the state’s Department of Natural Resources.

“We're envisioning it would be an online training course,” Luke Skinner, DNR invasive species specialist, told the Star Tribune newspaper. “This would be required training so boaters know the laws and what they need to do to prevent the spread of invasive species.'”

Those hauling other water-related equipment, such as docks or boat lifts, also would have to pass the course.

Also, fines for those caught violating invasive species laws would be doubled — all part of increased efforts by the DNR to slow the spread of invading critters to Minnesota's waters. Some measures will be implemented this season, including random roadside boat checks and a requirement that boat owners place free DNR stickers on their boats spelling out invasive species requirements.

But the training requirement wouldn't kick in until 2015 under the proposed bill.

Click here for the full article.

Comments

3 Monday, 06 February 2012 22:58

By MonetaryCurve

Lesmister was on the radio talking about this about a month ago, and stated that water fowl is a contributing factor in transporting invasive species. This really is a "feel good Law" that will only fill the Broke DNR Coffers and do nothing to Stop infestation. Where does all that legacy funding go? It was sold to Sportsmen as, we needed this funding for Clean Water.... Hummm. 2015 is the date when the Big Fines will really hit boaters.. $500.00 bucks if a Water Flee is found on your boat.. That will keep Tourism alive in Minnesota! Time to take-up Video Game Fishing and save me the troublesome Hassle of the Government yanking me off the road to look for a Weed and Flee. Venting!

2 Monday, 06 February 2012 22:48

By Marty

OMG the government is getting totaly out of control. If they want to control the invasive species, then start with the DAM FREIGHTERS. After that is where it all started to begin with

1 Monday, 06 February 2012 20:32

By enginecom

More ways to fleece the public of their money. Boater education without course requirements and ramp signage is all that is needed. It's a wonder they don't want boats to be certified washed after each day of fishing. Another state to avoid when angling.

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