Jasinski: Important watercraft steps to take as fall approaches

Friends and neighbors,

As fall approaches, there are a few important things to keep in mind for your water-related toys like canoes, kayaks, jet skis, boats, docks, and lifts.   

One of the most important steps is to check your equipment for invasive species. Many of us are storing our docks and boats for the season, and it is essential to make sure they are free of aquatic invasive species like zebra mussels. These species can cause serious harm to our lakes and rivers. Now is a perfect time to inspect your gear as you pull it out of the water. 

Here are a few tips to remember: 

  • Check your equipment carefully: Be sure to inspect posts, wheels, and any underwater support structures on your docks, lifts, or boat hulls. Zebra mussels and other invasive species often attach to these surfaces after being submerged all summer.   
  • Drying out your equipment: It is the law in Minnesota to keep docks and boat lifts out of the water for at least 21 days before moving them to a different lake. This helps prevent the spread of invasive species. 
  • If you need help, hire licensed professionals: If you are hiring someone to help with removing or storing your docks and boats, make sure they are on the state’s list of permitted lake service providers. These businesses are trained to deal with invasive species and can ensure that your equipment is handled properly. 
  • Transportation permits: If your equipment cannot be completely cleaned before transport, you may need a no-cost permit from the DNR. This ensures you are following all guidelines to prevent the spread of any invasive species. 

Finally, if you think you have discovered an invasive species that has not been confirmed in your lake, make sure you contact the DNR. Protecting our waters is a community effort, and every step we take helps. 

Contact me:

If you have any questions about any issues we are working on at the legislature, feel free to contact me any time at sen.john.jasinski@mnsenate.gov or 651-296-0284.

And you can always get the latest news from St. Paul on my Facebook page at fb.com/SenatorJohnJasinski.

 It is a privilege to serve you!

John