Protect our waterways while boating on the North Shore
Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior is home to one of the most pristine waterways in the country. The sparkling waters of Lake Superior are fed by hundreds of glacial lakes and streams throughout the Superior National Forest and beyond.
This region offers unmatched opportunities for boating, paddling, and fishing, in clean air and fresh water. It’s one of the most beloved outdoor destinations in the country.
That is why it is so important to protect our waterways from aquatic invasive species by following the easy Clean, Drain, and Dry steps
What Are Aquatic Invasive Species?
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are non-native plants, animals, or pathogens that get into lakes, rivers, and streams and disrupt the natural ecosystem. Boating on the North Shore, whether it is in Lake Superior or an inland lake, can spread these invasive species.
Of most concern on Minnesota’s North Shore are Rusty Crayfish, Spiny waterflea, and Zebra mussels, as well as Eurasian watermilfoil, hydrilla, curly-leaf pondweed, and starry stonewort.
Once introduced, AIS are difficult—sometimes impossible—to remove. That’s why prevention is the best strategy to keep these invaders from outgrowing native species and reducing the water quality and habitat.
Why This Matters on the North Shore
Whether you’re boating or kayaking on Lake Superior, fishing on an inland lake, or canoeing in the Boundary Waters, you’re navigating waters that are largely free of invasive species — and we want to keep it that way.
Northern Minnesota’s delicate ecosystem relies on native fish, plants, and microorganisms working in harmony. A single contaminated boat or piece of gear can introduce a destructive species that alters the waterbody forever. Even tiny organisms or plant fragments can hitch a ride on your boat, trailer, livewell, or waders.
The solution? Clean, Drain, Dry — every time you come off the water.
Clean. Drain. Dry. — What You Need to Do
While boating on the North shore, help protect waterways nationwide by following these simple and essential steps:
CLEAN
- Remove all mud, plants, fish, and debris from your boat, trailer, anchor, and equipment before leaving any water access.
- Inspect hard-to-reach areas like axles, rollers, and transducers where AIS can hide.
- Use a hose or pressure washer if available, especially if you’re moving between water bodies.
DRAIN
- Drain all water from your boat, including the bilge, livewells, ballast tanks, and motor.
- Keep drain plugs removed while transporting your boat over land. (It’s Minnesota law!)
DRY
- Let all gear and your watercraft dry completely before entering another water body — ideally for at least five days.
- If drying isn’t possible, consider using a hot water rinse (at least 120°F) to decontaminate your equipment.
Bonus Tip 1: Avoid moving live bait from one waterbody to another. Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash, not the lake!
Bonus Tip 2: Spiny Waterflea has a knack for getting tangled up in fishing line. If left inside of a spooled reel, it can survive until the next waterbody.
Free Boat Cleaning Stations
Clean, drain, and dry your boat, canoe, or kayak at a mobile cleaning and decontamination station. Free boat cleaning is available at Birch Lake and Munger Landing in St. Louis County. There is also a boat cleaning station in Lake County at the Silver Bay Marina.
The website Expect to Inspect is a resource for free boat cleaning stations nationwide.
One Simple Habit. Big Impact.
Following Clean, Drain, Dry helps preserve the clean waters and wild beauty of North Shore MN for future generations. It’s a simple habit with powerful ripple effects — for anglers, paddlers, swimmers, and wildlife alike.
Learn more and take the pledge to stop aquatic hitchhikers at wildlifeforever.org/invasive-species-prevention.
Learn more at CleanDrainDry.org
Content sponsored by Wildlife Forever and St. Louis County.
