What is the purpose of decontamination stations?

The purpose of decontamination stations specifically involves treating vessels that may contain aquatic invasive species (AIS) using high-pressure hot water or chemical solutions. This method is essential because it effectively removes and kills any invasive species present on the watercraft, helping to prevent their spread to other bodies of water. Decontamination procedures are crucial for protecting local ecosystems and maintaining water quality.

While washing boats with soap and water may seem beneficial, it is not sufficient to address the potential threat posed by AIS effectively. Furthermore, providing fuel service or free boat storage is unrelated to the primary objective of preventing the introduction and spread of invasive species, which is the core focus of decontamination stations.