Friday, May 9, 2025

MN Governor Tim Walz Proclaims May 10th Clean Drain Dry Day

Governor Tim Walz along with Wildlife Forever and DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen, proclaim Saturday, May 10th as Minnesota Clean Drain Dry Day. With the Minnesota Fishing Opener serving as the official start of fishing and boating season, people are reminded to inspect their boats and remove any plants, sediments, and standing water to help prevent the spread of invasive species.

“Minnesota is renowned nationwide for the beauty and multitude of lakes. Doing your part and taking the simple steps of self-inspecting your boat and using watercraft cleaning stations at the access to Clean Drain and Dry goes a long way toward maintaining these resources for generations to come,” said Zach Burnside, invasive species program manager for Wildlife Forever.

Minnesotans are united in fighting AIS. Through bipartisan support, the Minnesota legislature dedicates $10 million to County and municipal led efforts to combat the spread. Clean Drain Dry Day serves as an early season reminder for boaters and anglers to check all watercraft before and after launch. Invasive species often spread on watercraft trailers, boat hulls, docks and lifts. As the open water boating and fishing season heats up, being diligent to follow the Clean Drain Dry steps will help prevent further spread.

Do your part this fishing and boating season to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species:

  1. Clean, Drain, and Dry all boats, trailers, and gear.
  2. Trash Unused Bait or bring fresh water from home to transport minnows and leaches.
  3. Contact your legislators to remind them that our lakes and rivers need County Prevention Aid funding

View the proclamation here.

The Clean Drain Dry Initiative™ is the leading public awareness campaign educating outdoor recreational users on how to prevent the spread of invasive species. Strategic branding, marketing, and educational tools ignite access-based solutions including watercraft cleaning equipment, modern signage, and coordinated messaging.

Clean. Drain. Dry.

Expect 2 Inspect

Citizen Carp Control

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

Contact:

Zach Burnside

zburnside@wildlifeforever.org