2024 ABCs of California Boating

Green Boating Guidelines

Aquatic Invasive Species Non-native aquatic species – plants, fish, animals – are invading our state’s coastal and inland waters. These pests can increase dramatically under the right conditions, displacing native species, clogging waterways and hydrologic infrastructure as well as impacting navigation and recreation. Hydrilla, Egeria densa , Water Hyacinth, and quagga and zebra mussels are some of the nuisance species that can be accidentally transported by recreational boaters when caught in propellers or intakes or attached to hulls. Like other Western states, California is spending millions to protect our waterways against these aquatic invasive species. Prevent the spread of aquatic weeds! It is important for boaters to clean all plant fragments from their watercraft and equipment. To learn more about DBW’s control programs for submerged aquatic vegetation and floating aquatic vegetation in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, sign up for the weekly announcement at www.dbw. ca.gov/AISMailingList. Don’t Move a Mussel! Invasive aquatic mussels are transported by recreational boats in fresh water. Once introduced, they are nearly impossible to eliminate. When leaving the water, all boaters should follow these steps to prevent the spread of quagga and zebra mussels: • Inspect all exposed surfaces. Small mussels feel like sandpaper to the touch. • Wash the hull of each watercraft thoroughly, preferably with high-pressure hot water. • Remove all plants and animal material. • Drain all water and dry all areas, including compartments and the outboard unit.

• Clean and dry all live wells. • Empty and dry any buckets. • Dispose of all baits properly.

• Wait for the watercraft to dry thoroughly before launching into different fresh waters. • Visit www.dbw.ca.gov/StopQZ for more information on quagga and zebra mussels. You can also contact QZGrant@parks.ca.gov or call (888) 326-2822. Report new infestations of non-native aquatic species to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife at Invasives@wildlife.ca.gov or (866) 440-9530; and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at (916) 414-6464.

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