Waterfowl hunters can prevent spread of aquatic invasive species

Waterfowl hunters are urged to be cautious to help prevent the spread of damaging aquatic invasive species this fall.   

Zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, curly-leaf pondweed, brittle naiad and other aquatic invasive species can “hitchhike” on hunting gear and be spread by droplets of water or even tiny plant fragments.

Once spread, aquatic invasive species cause irreparable harm to aquatic ecosystems and waterfowl habitat, severely impeding hunting, fishing and boating for future generations.

Aquatic invasive species are spread by boaters, anglers and hunters not taking sufficient precautions against them. To prevent invasive species spread, Nebraska Game and Parks regulations require anglers, hunters, and boaters to conduct clean, drain, and dry procedures before leaving a water body. Hunters must remove any visible plants or mud from their gear and be careful to avoid using invasive plants, such as phragmites, in their hunting blinds. They are also required to ensure all water is drained from equipment before leaving and to let gear dry for at least five days or wipe it down with a towel before re-using.

Nebraska is one of the few states in the Midwest left without widespread zebra mussel invasions. The only water bodies in the state that have established zebra mussel populations are the Missouri River, Lewis and Clark Lake/Lake Yankton, Beaver Lake in Plattsmouth, and Offutt Air Force Base Lake. Observations of invasive aquatic plants have been on the rise in surrounding states and Nebraska.

Nebraskans hunting outside of the state should be especially cautious to not return with and introduce invasive species into Nebraska waters.

“We urgently need the public’s help to keep our waters invasive-free and stop these critters in their tracks,” said Kristopher Stahr, Game and Parks’ Aquatic Invasive Species Program manager. “Take a few moments to Clean, Drain and Dry your gear, and choose camouflaging plants wisely for your blind to help stop the spread of these aquatic invasive species.”

Visit stopaquatichitchhikers.org/prevention/#waterfowl-hunters for details and for more information on aquatic invasive species. For information on aquatic invasive species infestations in Nebraska, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov/aquaticinvasivespecies.

Report any suspected observation of zebra mussels or other aquatic invasive species to Game and Parks at 402-471-7602 or at ngpc.AIS@nebraska.gov.