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Official Mississippi Boating Handbook Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks

Protecting Mississippi’s Waterways

Aquatic Nuisance Species

Zebra musselIntroducing non-native species into Mississippi waters can upset the balance of the ecosystem. Aquatic nuisance species most often spread between waterways by hitching a ride on vessels and trailers. When transplanted into new waters, these organisms proliferate, displacing native species and damaging water resources.

How You Can Help

Here's what you can do to prevent spreading aquatic nuisance species:

  • Inspect your vessel and trailer, removing any plants and animals you see before leaving the waterbody area.
  • Drain your motor, live well, and bilge on land before leaving the waterbody area.
  • Empty your bait bucket on land. Never release live bait into a waterbody or release aquatic animals from one waterbody into another.
  • Rinse your vessel, trailer, and equipment.
  • Air dry your vessel and equipment for as long as possible.
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Online boating safety handbook last modified: April 22, 2008
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