The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) is joining state and federal partners across the country to highlight the dangers imposed by invasive species during National Invasive Species Awareness Week, which runs from Feb. 23-27.
Invasive species like quagga mussels cause millions of dollars in damage to boat motors, docks, water intake systems and harm native wildlife. Illegally released pets like turtles, snakes and fish can also introduce diseases or outcompete native wildlife for food and resources.
“Taking a few minutes to clean your gear, especially footwear, after use is one of the best ways to protect Arizona’s waters and fisheries whether you are in an AIS (aquatic invasive species) affected water or not,” said Kate Dukette, AIS coordinator for AZGFD.
The agency encourages the public to be responsible stewards of our public lands, lakes, and rivers by taking the following steps:
- Learn about invasive species, especially those found in Arizona. AZGFD’s website and the National Invasive Species Information Center are both good resources.
- Boaters and anglers should remember to clean, drain and dry your boat (and leave the plug out) before moving to another water. This helps stop the spread of quagga mussels and other aquatic invasive species. It is not just good practice, it’s the law.
- Anglers should clean and dry their gear. Don’t forget to clean off your boots. Never transport live fish from one body of water to another.
- Don’t release pets into the wild. It is illegal for pet owners who no longer wish to care for their exotic pets to release them into the wild, or dump their aquariums into bodies of water, potentially harming local ecosystems.
- Recreationists should clean off their hiking boots, off-road vehicles and other gear to stop invasive species from hitching a ride to a new location.
- Campers should not move firewood. Buy it where you’ll burn it, or gather on site where permitted. Slow the spread of invasive pests by taking extra care when traveling, gardening or moving recently cut down plant material. Buy plants from a reputable source and avoid using invasive plants.
“It is everyone’s responsibility to be stewards of the places that we love so we can protect Arizona’s ecosystem for future generations,” Dukette said.
For more information about National Invasive Species Awareness Week, visit www.nisaw.org.