Even novice computer users are familiar with the threat of a computer virus infecting their system. Most of us are familiar with the damage a virus can do but know little else.
In the angling community, similar threats are posed to the future of fishing by aquatic nuisance species. While computers can be repaired or replaced, dealing with aquatic nuisance species is another matter.
The phrase aquatic nuisance species is a generalization referring to exotic plants and animals that threaten the health and future of fish along with their aquatic habitat.
For the sake of comparison, think of aquatic nuisance species in the same terms as leafy spurge in grasslands. The benefits provided by this invasive species are minimal while the risk posed to desirable species is severe.
While the negative effect of it is obvious -- ranchers losing beef production due to a weed -- anglers may see not see the real effects of aquatic nuisance species until it's too late.
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Anglers are increasingly mobile, adding to the ease of transporting unwanted aquatic hitch-hikers. Anglers may fish Lake Superior over a weekend and by Monday evening they are back on the water at Dead Colt Creek in Ransom County.
Adding a new twist is the nationwide excitement about the Lewis and Clark bicentennial. Watercraft from all across the United States will converge on the Missouri River as curiosity seekers retrace the historical path of the Lewis and Clark expedition. Along with an increase in tourism to North Dakota, the odds of spreading invasive water organism also increase.
Ranchers understand it's easier to prevent an infestation than to battle the spread of leafy spurge. This same vigilance is needed to ensure zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilifoil and purple loosestrife are not allowed to take root in your favorite fishing hole.
As anglers become aware of the threat posed, the next step is learning where to look and how to stop aquatic nuisance species from spreading.
Lynn Schlueter is the North Dakota Game and Fish Departments special projects biologist tasked with spreading the word about the dangers of aquatic nuisance species.
"Anglers are realizing the threat posed is real, and are now gathering information to prevent these species from damaging prized fisheries," Schlueter said. "It's not as simple as just being aware of the threat, we need to step up our efforts and promote active preventive measures. Each time you take your boat to a different waterway you are the potential vector or transport."
Steps to prevent aquatic nuisance species from spreading are as simple as removing all vegetation from the boat and trailer.
Next, clean the equipment and boat after use with hot water, disinfect the bilge and live well. Finally, do not dump bait into the lake, while there is obvious concern with exotic fish introductions, even water from another source is a potential threat.
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Leier, an outreach biologist for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department in West Fargo, can be reached at (701) 277-0719
or at dleier@state.nd.us
