What procedure is recommended if a watercraft has been on high-risk water in the last 30 days?

Decontamination is the recommended procedure for a watercraft that has been on high-risk water within the last 30 days to effectively address the potential presence of aquatic invasive species (AIS). High-risk waters are areas known for issues related to invasive species, and being in contact with these waters raises the likelihood that invasive organisms may have attached to or entered the watercraft.

Decontamination processes typically involve thoroughly washing the watercraft, gear, and any associated equipment using high-pressure hot water and, if necessary, chemical treatments that can eliminate any invasive species. This step is critical not only for protecting the watercraft but also for safeguarding local ecosystems from the introduction of non-native species that can disrupt habitats and local wildlife.

While inspection seals, storage, and washing can be part of proper practices when handling watercraft, they do not provide the comprehensive cleaning needed to remove or destroy potential invasive species that may have been acquired from high-risk waters. Therefore, decontamination represents the most thorough and urgent action to mitigate the risks associated with AIS.