Aquatic Nuisance Species

Protect the Waters of South Dakota!

Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Management in South Dakota

The environmental and economic impacts of Aquatic Nuisance Species are being felt across the United States. Zebra Mussels, Eurasian Watermilfoil and Brittle Naiad among others are making their way into South Dakota or are currently established within bordering states. While these threats are alarming, our relatively low current levels of infestation provide us with a very good opportunity to be proactive in our response to ANS threats.

Keep Aquatic Nuisance Species out of South Dakota's Waters:

ALWAYS DO THE FOLLOWING:

• Remove aquatic plants and animals before leaving any waterbody.
• Drain water from bait bucket, live well, bilge and motor before leaving any waterbody.
• Dispose of unwanted bait, fish parts, and worms in the trash.
• Spray/wash boat, trailer, and equipment with high pressure hot water on your way home or at home -OR- dry everything for at least 5 days.
• Always report questionable species.

NEVER DO THE FOLLOWING:

• Never release live animals or plants - this includes all aquarium species, bait, pets or water garden plants. Do not release these into the wild. If you cannot find another home for animals, dispose of them in a trash can or bury them. Seal plants in plastic bags and dispose.

Why Is This Important? Because these hitchhikers can:

• Reduce game fish populations
• Ruin boat engines and jam steering equipment
• Make lakes/rivers unusable by boaters and swimmers
• Dramatically increase the operating costs of drinking water plants, power plants, dam maintenance, and industrial processes
• Reduce native species
• Degrade ecosystems
• Affect human health
• Reduce property values
• Affect local economies of water-dependent communities.

Click here to report a NEW Aquatic Nuisance Species

This page was updated on 15-Mar-10