Friday Is Dryday: The Final Step That Makes All The Difference

White Bear Lake, MN – Clean Drain Dry Week ends on a high note with Dryday Friday, a reminder that drying boats, trailers, and gear is the final and often overlooked step in protecting local waters from aquatic invasive species (AIS).

Boaters are urged to pull their drain plugs before leaving the boat launch to help stop the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) like zebra mussels and invasive plants that can be carried in standing water.

“Drying your equipment may seem small, but it’s one of the most important things you can do to prevent invasive species from spreading,” said Zach Burnside, Invasive Species Program Manager of Wildlife Forever, “If you’re not able to wait 5 days for your craft to dry fully, consider a full decontamination. Locations can be found on our website.”

AIS like zebra mussels and spiny water fleas can survive for days in damp gear or standing water. Thoroughly drying watercraft and equipment—especially if moving between lakes or rivers—is essential.

Tips for Dryday Friday:

• Use towels to wipe down boats, paddles, and gear.
• Open compartments and let them air out.
• Let gear dry for at least 5 days before visiting another waterbody, if possible.

Outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to share their drying routine online using the hashtag #DrydayFriday and tagging Clean. Drain. Dry. Initiative

Drying your boat is especially important for travelling boaters. Crossing jurisdictions often comes with a jumbled mess of laws and regulations. Always Expect to Inspect your boat by being prepared and only traveling with boats Clean, Drained, and Dry, and most importantly: free of AIS.

Wildlife Forever through its funding partners is a national leader in developing, educating and engaging the public in programs to battle and avoid spreading invasive species. Additional programs include:

Project 435   Expect 2 Inspect   Citizen Carp Control

To learn about services, contact Zach Burnside or visit CleanDrainDry.org

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