Launch Site Disinfection Stations

As exotic plants, animals, mussels, and pathogens, continue to spread from lake to lake, it is more important than ever to properly wash boats, trailers, and equipment, both when entering and exiting a lake. However, education on the necessity of not spreading “aquatic hitchhikers” is not as easy as actually taking the time to wash a boat. PLM has been working with lake associations across the state of Michigan to install a disinfection station at their launch sites to help stop spreading exotics and/or pathogens from lake to lake. A disinfection station allows everybody using the launch site an opportunity to thoroughly wash their boat, trailer, and/or equipment using a product that is approved and intended to be used at access sites. The station is rather inexpensive as it does not require electricity and/or high pressure water, which often make implementing a station impossible. Further, the maintenance of the station is rather simple, for after it is installed it only requires checking it every few weeks. It is more important than ever to take every step possible to protect our lakes, both private and public lakes. The State of Michigan finally took action making it illegal to transport “aquatic hitchhikers” on boats and trailers, but individuals and lake associations need to assist at the local level and help protect the assets we work everyday to properly manage and protect. If you are interested in acquiring more information on installing a disinfection station, please contact your lake manager at PLM, 800-382-4434 or visit the Michigan Lakes & Streams Association website at www.mlswa.com.

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