Protect Alabama Waters and Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers!
As Alabamians, we love to spend time on the water. Protecting these resources is an important part of our overall enjoyment. A concern we must all address is the spreading of harmful plants, animals and other organisms. These aquatic nuisance species can hitch a ride on our clothing, boats, and items used in the water. When we go to another lake or stream, the nuisance species can be released. And, if the conditions are right, these introduced species can become established and create drastic results.

So what can we do? By following simple procedures each time we leave the water, we can stop aquatic hitchhikers.

Simple Procedures:

• Remove any visible mud, plants, fish or animals before transporting equipment.
• Eliminate water from equipment before transporting.
  
• Clean and dry anything that came in contact with water (boats, trailers, equipment, clothing, dogs, etc.).
• Never release plants, fish or animals into a body of water unless they came out of that body of water.  (In Alabama, it is illegal to release aquatic bait.)