Biologists led by the University of Iowa discovered an invasive species of snails in previously unknown locations along the Eastern Seaboard using a new technique that detects traces of DNA left by the aquatic animals. The finding shows the technique, called eDNA, can detect and control incursions by other invasive species.
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Climate Change, Aquatic Invasive Species, and increasing development on shorelines are just some of threats facing lakes in the Northwoods.
“Lakes are facing a perfect storm of problems,” said Bob Martini, president of the Oneida County Lakes and Rivers Association.
He said for a long time they used to host a Six-County Lakes Meeting every other year to just keep people up to date on things impacting lakes.
10 years ago, they switch to every year because law changes meant lakes had less protection.
“The legislature and the then-governor changed the lake protection system dramatically in Wisconsin. They removed local control. They changed some of the standards. They started cutting the DNR. They really changed the zoning requirements. So we starting doing this conference yearly instead because there was so much information,” said Martini.
The beautiful, clean lakes are one of the biggest reasons people come to the Northwoods.
It’s why you likely won’t find any shortage of boats on the water this weekend.
Aquatic Invasive Species remain a big concern in the Northwoods.
Cathy Higley is the Vilas County Lake Conservation Specialist. She said you should be checking your boat every time you put it in and pull it out of a lake.
“Just make sure you’re expecting your boat for plants and animals. Remove any plants and animals. Drain all the lake water from your live well, your bilge, your ballast tanks, or any other area that’s holding water. And also, never move live fish,” said Higley.
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Memorial Day weekend traditionally marks the start of summer for many Texans, and as the country picks itself up from the COVID-19 pandemic, many Texans will be vacationing this weekend.
Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD) is reminding Texans that they can help stop the spread of invasive species in Texas lakes by doing three simple things: Clean, Drain, and Dry their boat, raft, or paddleboard.
“Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kick-off to boating season in Texas, and while we want everyone to have a great time, we also want them to avoid giving free rides to invasive species and helping them travel to new lakes,” said Brian Van Zee, TPWD Inland Fisheries Regional Director. “The best way to prevent the spread of destructive invasive species is to clean, drain and dry your boats and equipment – every time.”