You are the First Line of Defense Against AIS: Ask Questions

Do you know that in 2011 Minnesota passed a law for service providers so that AIS, such as the Zebra mussels pictured here, are not transported from one waterway to another?  Contamination from nearby infested lakes, such as Leech Lake (Zebra mussels), Detroit Lake (Zebra mussels), Twin Lakes and Crow Wing Lakes (faucet snail), needs to be prevented.

To view a map showing infested lakes, follow this link and click on the maps tab:  http://www.eddmaps.org/midwest/tools/infestedwaters/

Check if your service provider uses equipment in infested lakes like Leech Lake (the big lake near Walker) or Detroit Lake.  Call ahead before delivery to check how they decontaminate their trucks, trailers, boots, and clothing.  We are going to need extreme vigilance to prevent contamination.  While certified providers have been trained, it is well worthwhile for each of us to call our provider and make sure the precautions are being taken.

According to the law, service providers are individuals or businesses hired to install or remove water-related equipment, such as boats, docks, boat lifts, or structures, from waters of the state. They are required to obtain a permit from the DNR before providing any of those services.  Permits are granted after the principal person in the company has attended and passed a 3 hour training course relating to AIS issues and paid a $50 fee.  All employees must take an online AIS course.  Vehicle stickers and wallet cards are then issued.
See:http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/lsp/index.html

To confirm your provider is permitted visit:  http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/rlp/permits/lsp/lsp-permits.pdf.  Look under Hubbard County or if the provider is further away, check Clearwater, Beltrami, Cass, Wadena, Becker or Otter Tail counties.

Please be sure your guests decontaminate equipment coming from infested areas.
Check information and times at:  http://www.longlakeliving.org/p/blog-page_6.html