State asks boaters to clean, drain, dry to prevent spread of invasive species

The Washington Invasive Species Council and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) are asking boaters to “clean, drain and dry” their boats and equipment this boating season to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species and protect Washington’s waterways.

Invasive species, which include aquatic plants and animals, can attach themselves on the surfaces of boats, motors, trailers and other equipment, according to a news release. That includes non-motorized watercraft such as kayaks and inflatable paddleboards and any equipment that touches the water including boots and waders.

Some aquatic invasive plants, such as Eurasian milfoil, grow quickly and take over habitats by crowding out native species. The plants can grow so densely that they clog boat engines and can make swimming difficult and unpleasant. Eurasian milfoil is present in much of the state but can be prevented from establishing in new waterbodies by following Clean, Drain, Dry protocols.

Other devastating invasive species, such as zebra and quagga mussels, are not known to be present in Washington but are high priorities for prevention.

It is estimated that the invasive mussels would cost more than $100 million a year just for hydropower and water infrastructure alone.”

Simple actions people can take to clean, drain and dry watercraft and equipment include:

Clean shoes, waders, life vests, boat hulls and engines, trailers and other equipment by removing all visible plants, algae and mud. Use a stiff-bristled brush to clean equipment.

Drain any accumulated water from boats or gear–including water used in cleaning–before leaving the vicinity.

Let boats or gear fully dry before using again.
More information on the Clean, Drain, Dry campaign and a how-to guide are online.

WDFW inspects boats, kayaks and other watercraft for aquatic invasive species at five watercraft check stations. In 2024, the department inspected more than 58,000 watercraft and intercepted 25 mussel-fouled watercraft that were cleaned and decontaminated. It is illegal to transport aquatic invasive species from one waterbody to another in Washington. Violators could face a year in jail and $5,000 in fines. More information on aquatic invasive species is on the WDFW website or by calling 1-888-WDFW-AIS.