By Lizzy Reitzloff, Stream Monitoring and AIS Coordinator
Time and time again, we have seen how invested hunters are in protecting the health of future waterfowl populations. As Wisconsin’s hunting season ramps up, so will Rock River Coalition’s efforts to help hunters prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by handing out gear cleaning kits at one of our many basin waterways. Cleaning boats and gear after use is one of the most impactful ways to help prevent aquatic invasive species, protecting our waters and the species that depend on them.
Many aquatic invasive species have direct and indirect impacts on waterfowl populations. Of note is the faucet snail (Bithynia tentaculate), which is linked to several large-scale waterfowl die-offs in the Upper Midwest due to the intestinal parasites it can host. When consumed by waterfowl, the parasites attack the bird’s internal organs, causing fatigue, difficulty diving and flying, and eventually death. Though humans who consume infested waterfowl are not at risk, parasites spread via the faucet snail do threaten the long-term survival of waterfowl populations.
Waterfowl habitats are also under threat from several aquatic invasives, such as non-native common reed (Phragmites australis). This grass, which is often used to build blinds and camouflage boats, is aggressive in its growth and spread. The dense patches limit access to hunting areas and reduce the diversity of waterfowl species’ food sources, nesting habitats, and stop over locations. Similar impacts are observed with the establishment of several other wetland invaders, including yellow iris, narrow-leaf cattails, purple loosestrife, reed manna grass, reed canary grass, Eurasian watermilfoil, and curly-leaf pondweed.
Mud, water and plants that get stuck on hunting equipment can harbor aquatic invasive species, causing hunters to inadvertently spread aquatic invasive species from lake to lake. So after a long day adventuring through water and muck, hunters should inspect the following gear: waders, clothing, decoys, decoy bags, ropes, anchors, blinds, push poles, paddles, boats, trailers, ATVs, and other hunting equipment. The state of Wisconsin requires hunters to follow a series of aquatic invasive species prevention steps that will help protect hunting traditions for future generations:
- INSPECT boats, trailers, and equipment.
- REMOVE any attached aquatic plants, no matter how small the fragment, or animals (before launching, after loading and before transporting on a public highway).
- DRAIN all water from boats, motors and all equipment, including decoys.
One of the most useful AIS prevention tools is a boot brush, and we recommend all hunters include one in their kit. These portable cleaning devices can effectively clean off the mud on waders and other equipment. Some boat launches or public access areas might also host boot brush stations.
Waterfowl hunters should also be sure to check their furry hunting companion. After an enjoyable day of swimming and racing through muck or vegetation to retrieve birds, the mud in their fur, paws, collars, and vests can be a vector for the spread of invasives. Hunters should check their pup’s fur, paws and ear flaps, and any equipment they wear, for organic materials that don’t belong. Taking a few minutes to wipe them down with a jug of tap water, a towel, or pet wipes before leaving the boat landing can be a great bonding moment, while ensuring the canine isn’t spreading invasives between water bodies.
With just a few minutes at the end of a long enjoyable hunt, waterfowl hunters can take steps that can help ensure the long-term survival of the populations they enjoy harvesting and preserve hunting traditions for future generations.