OutdoorNebraska

OutdoorNebraska.gov | 27 Aquatic Invasive Species AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES PROGRAM Aquatic invasive species fees collected from boaters fund the Aquatic Invasive Species Program in Nebraska. These fees pay for programs to educate the public about AIS, efforts to keep AIS from being introduced, such as monitoring state waters; inspection and decontamination of conveyances; treatment for AIS populations; and other AIS projects as needed. AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES PREVENTION Aquatic Invasive Species – Any waterborne, non-native organism that threatens the diversity or abundance of native species, the ecological stability of impacted waters, or commercial, agricultural, aquacultural or recreational activities. Impact – Invasive species may cause significant ecological problems because they have been introduced into habitat in which there are no natural pathogens, parasites or predators. Lack of these natural controls may allow a nuisance species to grow exponentially in new habitat. Introduced nuisance species may prey upon or compete with native species and could transmit diseases to native species, decreasing boating and angling access opportunities. Preventive Steps – Anglers and boaters should prevent the introduction or spread of invasive species. This is especially important to boaters who travel to waters that have invasive species not present in any Nebraska waters. Follow these regulations: • It is unlawful for a boat to arrive at or leave any body of water in Nebraska with water other than from a domestic source except for fire-fighting purposes. Drain water on site. • It is unlawful for a boat or trailer to arrive or leave a launch area with any aquatic vegetation from that water body still attached. Boat blinds cannot use plants listed as invasive species or noxious weeds. • Wash mud off waders. Felt-sole wading boots are unlawful. • These steps are intended to prevent or delay the establishment of aquatic invasive species in Nebraska waters. Report Suspected AIS Observations For questions, or to report any suspected AIS observations, contact the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission's aquatic invasive species program manager at 402- 471-7602 or ngpc.ais@nebraska.gov. AIS, Bait Regulation Changes Pending The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission amended fisheries regulations regarding aquatic invasive species and bait collecting in October 2024. These pending AIS changes relate to definitions, species categories, unlawful activities, inspections, decontaminations, impoundments, and restrictions. Bait changes pertain to legal species, areas closed to collection and harvest methods. Once the changes are fully approved, this guide will be updated at OutdoorNebraska.gov.

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