By now most boaters know about the “Pick it or Ticket” law that went into effect over the July 4th weekend. But the message bears repeating.

In an effort to keep zebra mussels, European milfoil, spiny water fleas and fish diseases from being spread from lake to lake, boaters are being asked to drain the water from their boats before they leave the area. Draining the water by pulling the drain plug only takes about a minute, and will prevent contaminating other lakes. Boaters are asked to remove debris and plant life from their boats and drain the live wells. Some lakes even have inspectors hired by the Department of Natural Resources to remind boaters.

In Minnesota, officials with the Department of Natural Resources and local police forces are working to inform boaters about the new law. If cited, the fine ranges from $50 to $1,000.

In order to keep Minnesota’s lakes great, pull the drain plug and empty the livewell. It’s the right thing to do.

By now most boaters know about the “Pick it or Ticket” law that went into effect over the July 4th weekend. But the message bears repeating.

In an effort to keep zebra mussels, European milfoil, spiny water fleas and fish diseases from being spread from lake to lake, boaters are being asked to drain the water from their boats before they leave the area. Draining the water by pulling the drain plug only takes about a minute, and will prevent contaminating other lakes. Boaters are asked to remove debris and plant life from their boats and drain the live wells. Some lakes even have inspectors hired by the Department of Natural Resources to remind boaters.

In Minnesota, officials with the Department of Natural Resources and local police forces are working to inform boaters about the new law. If cited, the fine ranges from $50 to $1,000.

In order to keep Minnesota’s lakes great, pull the drain plug and empty the livewell. It’s the right thing to do.