Great Lakes Aquatic Invasive Species

LANDING BLITZ

About the Great Lakes AIS Landing Blitz

Boaters and other recreators learn about the risks of spreading aquatic invasive species (AIS) at public and private boating access sites across the Great Lakes region every summer. The Great Lakes AIS “Landing Blitz” events take place over a two-week period, emphasizing the need to Clean, Drain, Dry boats whenever they come out of the water, and Dispose of any unwanted bait in the trash.

Local volunteers partner with state and provincial agencies to deliver consistent messaging about preventing the introduction and spread of AIS from the movement of watercraft and equipment between water bodies. Information on these events, including educational materials, locations and volunteer opportunities are posted on this page as they become available.

Events

Click the icons on the map below to learn more about the 2026 Great Lakes AIS Landing Blitz events!

What is the law in your state?

State-by-state information is coming soon. Please check back later!

Learn how to prevent AIS

Clean. Drain.Dry.

Click image to enlarge

CLEAN off visible aquatic plants, animals, and mud from all equipment before leaving water access

  • Rinse equipment and boat hulls (with high pressure, hot water when possible)
  • Rinse interior compartments of boats with low pressure, hot water (120°F)
  • Flush motor with hot water (120°F) for 2 minutes (or according to owner’s manual)

DRAIN motor, bilge, livewell, and other water containing devices before leaving water access.

DRY everything for at least five days OR wipe with a towel before reuse.

For ANGLERS, the additional step of DISPOSE is recommended:

DISPOSE of unwanted bait, worms, and fish parts in the trash. When keeping live bait, drain bait container and replace with spring or dechlorinated tap water. Never dump live fish or other organisms from one water body into another.

Each state and province has laws and regulations related to invasive species. Please be aware of state/provincial and local laws when taking steps to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species. Links in the “Partners” section below will take you to agency websites with information about relevant laws and regulations.

CAMPAIGNS