For the Tomahawk Leader

LINCOLN COUNTY – The Lincoln County Land Services Department recently reminded lake service providers to take steps to prevent spread of the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS).

“The open water season is right around the corner,” a release from the department said. “Docks, boat lifts, rafts and other water structures will soon be installed at a fast pace. Although this is an extremely busy time, it is still important to take special care whenever possible to help prevent the spread of AIS.”

The department said lake service providers throughout the Northwoods should remember to properly clean and disinfect equipment before moving to another waterbody, inspect equipment for aquatic vegetation, mud, sand, mussels and snails, remove anything that may have been found and discard on shore, drain all excess water from equipment before transport and dry the equipment when possible.

“The Lincoln County Land Services Department also encourages a thorough inspection of the equipment being installed,” the department stated. “It is important to note that some equipment, docks, boats, etc., are bought second-hand. Therefore, these items may have been in a different waterbody recently and should be checked thoroughly.”

For more information on preventing the spread of AIS, contact Tom Boisvert, Conservation Program Manager, at 715-539-1054.