PLATTEVILLE - Southwest Badger Resource Conservation and Development is in need of help during June, which is Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Month

Southwest Badger has many opportunities for volunteers to help with invasive species plant control projects, identification and monitoring. Resource Conservation and Development shares the responsibility for preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species.

To help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, the following steps can be used:

Trout Anglers

• Before entering and when leaving any water body, make sure all equipment is clean and free of plants and animals

• Remove all foreign substances including mud from boots and equipment

• Drain all water from boots and equipment

• Never move or transport live aquatic organisms (fish, frogs, crayfish, turtles, bugs)

• Replace felt soled boots with hard rubber

Boaters

• Inspect boats, trailers and equipment before launching and leaving

• Remove all attached aquatic plants and animals

• Drain all water from boats, vehicles and equipment

• Never move water, plants or live fish away from a water body. Limited exceptions apply. For "Bait Laws," visit www.dnr.wi.gov.

For more information on aquatic invasive species, contact Don Barrette at 608-348-7114 or don.barrette@swbadger.org.