White Bear Lake, MN – Wildlife Forever, in partnership with state and federal agencies, has developed a new interactive mapping tool called Expect to Inspect. Boaters and recreational users can now find the latest information on state laws on aquatic invasive species and locations for AIS decontamination stations and accesses outfitted with user led boat cleaning equipment.
State laws on invasive species often differ. As a result, boaters and anglers traveling across state lines may inadvertently fail to stop at required inspection stations. The Expect to Inspect public awareness campaign and map identifies more than 760 known inspection, decontamination, and access-based watercraft cleaning locations. Along with state specific information, the interactive map provides directions, hours of operation, and contact information for scheduling professional decontamination.
“Expect to Inspect is designed to make it easier to travel with your boat. Find a location, get your required inspection, and get back to recreation,” said Zach Burnside, Program Manager for the Clean Drain Dry Initiative.
Expect to Inspect is funded in partnership with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Quagga Zebra Action Plan, Bureau of Land Management, and is supported by the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force.
The Clean Drain Dry Initiative™ is a national public awareness campaign to educate outdoor recreational users on how to prevent the spread of invasive species. Access based solutions such as watercraft cleaning equipment, modern signage, and coordinated messaging, focuses on strategic content, marketing communications, and community outreach & educational tools.
For more AIS information and to learn how your organization can participate in the national public service campaign: Visit www.CleanDrainDry.org and contact Zach Burnside, ZBurnside@WildlifeForever.org