Even during winter, local conservation groups are offering tips to curb the spread of invasive species.
The Sheboygan County Planning and Conservation Department says that one of the most significant ways aquatic invasives spread despite the cold temperatures is through ice fishing.
Even when lakes freeze over, these invasives that harm ecosystems and the plants and animals that call them home can survive in mud, water, and equipment.
If you are hitting the lake to ice fish, the Planning and Conservation Department urges anglers to clean off any mud, plants, or critters from their gear, sleds, augers, and vehicles before leaving the lake.
Draining any water from buckets or gear and drying them before using them again can also significantly lessen the chance of transporting any harmful invasives.
Ideally, ice fishers should dry out any items used for five days, as this kills most species that are hitching a ride.
It also allows items to dry completely, with aquatic invasives such as zebra mussel larvae and spiny waterfleas able to survive in surprisingly small amounts of water.
Lastly, ice fishers are urged to never intentionally move plants or animals, for any reason, between water bodies.
More information on how to curb the spread of aquatic invasive species during the winter months can be found on the Sheboygan County Planning and Conservation Department Facebook page.
