b'E N V I R O N M E N TA L I N F O R M AT I O NEnvironmentalInformationPHOTO CREDIT - MARK CHANSKIWhat can I do to Clean, Drain, Dry Methodprevent the spread of BEFORE LEAVING THE LAUNCH: Clean: remove any visible mud, plants, fish or animals before non-native species? transporting equipment.Never release plants, fish or animals into a body of water unlessthey came out of that body of water. C Dispose any unused bait in an upland trash.onnecticut offers a wide variety of boating opportunities. Whether your boating preference is fresh water lakes and ponds or the salty water of Long Island Sound, you should be Drain: eliminates water from equipment, such as a live well, aware that aquatic invasive species have entered CT waters and maybefore transporting. be here to stay. Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) are non-native plants or animals that tend to grow at a rate such that they can displaceAt Home Prior To Your Next Launch:beneficial native species, disrupt the ecosystem and drastically reduce recreational activities, including swimming. Freshwater aquatic invasive plants can form a dense mat just below the Dry: any equipment that encounters the water (boats, trailers, waters surface, which interferes with boating, swimming and otheranchors, propellers, fishing equipment, clothing, etc.) for a recreational activities. minimum of one week in hot/dry weather or a minimum of four Thesespecies may have been introduced when large cargoweeks in cool/wet weather before entering new waters ships took on ballast water in foreign waters and discharged inIf drying isnt possible,US waters. Steps are being taken nationally to minimize theseoWash with hot water, preferable high pressure or, introductions. If a vessel sits at a dock for too long, growth can occuroDip equipment into 100% vinegar for 20 minutes prior on the hull, as well as bilge areas, live wells, or other places that mayto rinsing or, collect water are good hiding places for AIS to hitchhike betweenoUse a 1% salt solution and leave on for 24 hours prior ports or waterbodies. Local boaters can help by removing the speciesto rinsing (2/3 cups of salt to 5 gallons of water) or, on their boats and trailers and properly preparing and maintainingoWet with bleach solution (1 oz. per gallon) or soap their boats bottom. You can help prevent new introductions ofand hot water (Lysol, boat soap, etc.) for 10 minutes invasive plants and animals: Clean, Drain, Dry your boat and gear. prior to rinsing.2022 Connecticut BOATERS GUIDE39'