I just wanted to let you know that May 9 – 11 there will be increased enforcement in the area for AIS & Boat Plugs. If you are able, can you forward this message along to others that have a means to communicate to the public? Anything social media related would greatly help. There are worse things out there as far as invasive species goes and I would hate to see this lake get anything else. Hopefully we can curb and enforcement action though education and reminders.
This letter was undoubtedly written by Rick Bruschewitz, who avoids the internet, but is extremely interested in keeping invasives out of our waters. We are going to have to also beware of the DNR overreacting to our lawsuit that claims that they are not doing their job.
I've seen the DNR EVERYWHERE on Mille Lacs this year. More than I have for over 50 years. If you're doing something wrong this year, your odds of being busted this year are the highest they've ever been.
F-N-P... You're exactly right. Mille Lacs, now more than ever, will be under the microscope. All the lake users will have have to pay closer attention to what they are doing.
Trailer boat guys be advised... Check and double check your rig after loading. I got popped a year back for transporting invasives while looking for a power wash. Thing is... What coated my boat/trailer was remnants of a big bug hatch and not weeds... I guess insect carcasses can be considered invasive as well.
From MM on the eastside: I got checked at Westerlund's Bait in Malmo by a DNR officer as my plug was left in after getting the boat tank refueled.
He was cool when I showed him the boat bilge was completely drained and I got lucky with no tag. I pointed to my garage across the road and that the boat only is used ONLY on Mille Lacs. I got lucky. He said it was a $100 ticket and he gave me a warning. He was going home I think.
Remember to pull that drain plug as soon as you load your boat. I was sitting in the boat to drive it on and forgot the plug siting in the boat.
