June 2, 2006

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm has declared June 3 – 11, 2006, as Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week. Michigan’s expansive shorelines and inland waters draw millions of tourists and recreational users to take in the beauty of the state’s natural resources, and it is critical that all of those who enjoy the use of our waters do their part to help protect them.

Recreational users should demonstrate caution while enjoying Michigan’s vast water resources this summer. A few simple preventative measures can help protect Michigan’s pristine waters from AIS invasions. For example, watercrafts and recreational equipment should be inspected before leaving a lake. Any vegetation should be removed, all live wells drained, areas that may contain water cleaned, and unused bait should be disposed in the trash.

An aquatic invasive species is defined as a waterborne, non-native organism that threatens the diversity or abundance of native species, the ecological stability of impacted waters, or a commercial, agricultural, aquacultural, or recreational activity.

AIS not only impact the use of Michigan’s waters but have negative impacts on sport and commercial fishing, various industries, and native fish and wildlife. While enjoying Michigan waters this summer, please help protect our waters. To learn more about specific steps that can be taken to prevent the introduction and spread of AIS visit http://www.protectyourwaters.net.

AIS week is sponsored by the Department of Environmental Quality’s Office of the Great Lakes with collaborative efforts from other state and federal agencies, as well as private and nonprofit organizations. The OGL conducted the third annual AIS Awareness Week student poster contest for middle school aged students grades 6-8. Over 850 posters were received from more than 40 schools statewide. The winning student’s poster was used for AIS Awareness Week promotion and 5500 copies have been distributed throughout Michigan to promote the week. For AIS Awareness Week information, the Governor’s proclamation, event listings, activities, and more, visit the OGL’s Aquatic Invasive Species Web site at www.michigan.gov/deqaquaticinvasives; or call the OGL at 517 335 4056.

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

“Protecting Michigan’s Environment, Ensuring Michigan’s Future”

Revised June 2, 2006 by Pat Watson