Many people associate the threat of spreading AIS with activities such as boating and fishing; however, hunters are also at risk of moving aquatic invaders from one body of water to another.  The first and most important step is to remember you are the first line of defense against an invasion, so please take the time to drain, clean and dry your watercraft and equipment after every use. Here are the points to remember:

• Check your watercraft. Remove the bilge plug and any other plugs you may have on your watercraft and leave them out during transport.  This will allow any unseen water to drain out while you are traveling to and from your destination waters.  In addition, drain your live wells, ballast tanks, and any other compartments that can hold water.  Clean off any mud and debris from your watercraft and trailer.
• Keep your equipment clean and dry. Clean off any mud and debris after using waders, duck decoys and anchors.  Allow the equipment to dry completely between uses.
• Seek out an inspection when required to do so. Wyoming law requires any watercraft entering the state by land to undergo a mandatory inspection before launching between March 1 and November 30. A list of inspections locations and hours can be found on our website.

Be safe and enjoy the resources Wyoming has to offer, and thanks for helping combat the spread of AIS.