Fines to Double for Minn. Boaters Transporting Invasive Species

Boaters who transport invasive species will face higher fines.

According to the Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota law prohibits the transport of any invasive species in the state including zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil and spiny waterfleas.

Fines for boaters violating the state's aquatic invasive species laws will double on July 1.

For example, people who possess and transport aquatic invasive species will face a $500 fine instead of $250.

Earlier in June the DNR reported aquatic invasive species violation rates was at an 'unacceptable' 20 percent.

The DNR hopes the larger fines will 'help people realize that this is a serious problem... and everyone needs to do their part to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.'

Other new aquatic invasive species laws that go into effect July 1 include:

• Boat lifts, docks, swim rafts and other water-related equipment (except boats and other watercraft) that are removed from any water body may not be placed in another water body for at least 21 days. The drying out period is designed to kill any invasive species that might be attached to the equipment that are high risk and difficult to clean.

• Boat clubs, yacht clubs, marinas and other similar organizations are now considered lake-service providers, requiring permits for the clubs and staff working there. That means they must go through aquatic invasive species certification training.

Click here for more information from the DNR.

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