JUNE 2, 2005

In recognition of Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week, June 4-12, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land today encouraged Michigan residents to help protect Michigan waters from damaging nonnative fish and plants by purchasing Great Lakes Protection Fund Decals.

The $35 decals are available through the online Michigan Mall at www.michigan.gov/michiganestore.

"It's the time of year when Michigan residents and tourists begin boating, swimming and fishing in earnest," said Land. "In addition to enjoying our Great Lakes and inland lakes, I invite everyone to help protect them as well. The waters that provide us with fun in the sun - and support thriving industries - are in danger from pests that cost us millions. But we can all do our part by investing in a decal. The cost of a decal is a very reasonable price to protect such a priceless resource."

The Great Lakes Protection Fund receives $25 from each decal sold. The 3-inch square decal is decorative only and does not replace any required watercraft registration or identification sticker. It may be placed wherever desired, including on cars, trucks, trailers, boats or other vehicles.

Since the decal program began on October 1, 2004, 900 decals have been sold, generating $22,500 for the Great Lakes Protection Fund.

According to the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force, the economic and ecological damage from nonnative fish, plants and mollusks is staggering. Zebra mussels alone cost Great Lakes water users tens of millions of dollars annually to control. Other invasive species attack native fish, choke out indigenous plants and irreparably alter natural habitats. They also threaten the $4.5 billion sport and commercial fishing industries. More than one-third of these nuisance species have been introduced in just the last 30 years.

"I've talked to boaters, fishermen, marina owners and others who have experienced the damage these pests can do," Land said. "We stand to incur even more damage if we don't step up our efforts now. Our thriving fishing, boating, and tourism industries will suffer. With online shopping, you can take immediate action. It's fast and easy as well."

Payments may be made with Visa and MasterCard.

Boaters can help protect waters from invasive species by inspecting watercraft before leaving a lake, removing any vegetation, cleaning areas that contain water, and disposing of unused bait in the trash.

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