LANSING -- State Representative Gary McDowell (D-Rudyard) today announced that he supports a House plan that will protect our waterways from invasive species by requiring boaters to remove any aquatic plants from their vessels or face a fine.
"Our water plays a vital role in our economy and the special way of life we enjoy in the Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan," McDowell said. "Invasive species such as the European Watermilfoil present a danger to some of our most precious ecosystems. Minimizing the threat of invasive species will protect our waters, save jobs and help prevent our businesses from losing vital dollars."
The plan, introduced by State Representative Mike Lahti (D-Hancock), will:
- Prohibit a person from placing a boat, boating equipment or a boat trailer in Michigan waters if an aquatic plant is attached.
- Implement a $500 fine for anyone who violates the plan.
- Require owners of public boat access sites to post the plan.
The plan is intended to help stop the spread of Eurasian Watermilfoil in the Great Lakes. The Watermilfoil, which was introduced to the Great Lakes in the 1950s, is often spread by becoming entangled in boat propellers. The plant's floating canopy is known to crowd out native species.
"We need to be proactive in protecting our most precious natural resource," McDowell said. "Michigan's top three industries – tourism, agriculture and manufacturing – all rely on the Great Lakes and our other waterways. These industries provide jobs to thousands of working families. By protecting our waters, this legislation will protect our workers' jobs and help bolster our economy."