Aquatic invasive species are taking hold throughout the United States, drastically changing our waterways and harming native populations. Non-native plants, animals, and pathogens can fundamentally dismantle healthy aquatic environments. Unfortunately, humans—anglers and river enthusiasts, particularly—serve as the perfect vehicle to speed up the spread. “Clean, Drain, Dry” is a nationwide effort to curb the spread of these harmful aquatic invasive species, and Montana is going above and beyond to protect the incredible lakes, rivers, and streams from a pressing yet preventable threat.
One of the most harmful aquatic invasive species is the zebra mussels, which originated from Eastern Europe and Western Asia. While these mussels have spread throughout much of the US, Montana has successfully stalled a destructive invasion—for now.
If these mussels spread and take hold throughout the state, Montana will be severely impacted.
According to the Montana FWP, mussels invading the state would result in a $234 million economic hit annually, $122 million of which would be due to recreational impacts.
As so many of us know, Montana is home to some of the best fly fishing in this country and has one of the most vibrant fly fishing communities. For over 40 years, Madison River Fishing Company in Ennis, Montana, has outfitted anglers and supported the local fishery through conservation and encouraging responsible angling.
Joe Dilschneider of Madison River Fishing Company had this to say, “Fly shops definitely play a role in promoting ethical use of local resources. “Invasive species are clearly a present and serious threat to our rivers, lakes, and way of life.”
But the concern for his waters with invasive species is ever-present in the back of Joe’s head. “Any threat to the health and well-being of the Madison River is a direct existential threat to my business and our entire local economy.”
So, what can you do to protect Montana’s waterways and keep these ecosystems productive in such a vulnerable time? Clean. Drain. Dry.
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Clean your watercraft and outdoor recreation gear after each use.
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Drain all bilge, ballast tanks, bait containers, and live wells.
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Dry all equipment and gear for 5 days before you go to another water body.
Not to mention, did you know Montana requires out-of-state watercraft to be inspected before launching in the state?
For much more information, be sure to check out the incredible resources on Clean.Drain.Dry from Montana FWP.
So, next time you’re planning or on that out-of-state fishing excursion, be sure to take these critical precautions to prevent the spread of harmful aquatic invasive species AND protect all of our waterways.
Not Just a Slogan–“Clean Drain Dry” to Keep Our Waterways Healthy
