When is the best time for cleaning your boat to stop the spread of aquatic nuisance species?

Cleaning your boat before leaving the ramp area is the best approach to prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species. This practice ensures that any invasive plants, animals, or debris that may have attached to your boat or gear are removed while you are still at the launch site. By doing so, you significantly reduce the likelihood of transporting these species to other bodies of water, where they could potentially disrupt local ecosystems.

Cleaning at the ramp allows for proper disposal of any organisms in a designated area, typically equipped for this purpose. This proactive step is essential because once you have left the ramp area—for instance, after returning home or arriving at the dock—there is a higher chance that these invasive species could be released into new environments, harming native species and habitats. Taking care of this immediately before setting off into new waters is crucial for maintaining the health of aquatic ecosystems.