Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) in Kentucky
Introducing non-native species into state or federally controlled waters can upset the ecosystem and hurt the environment by clogging waterways and crowding out native species.
You can help prevent the introduction and spread of non-native species from one body of water to another by checking, draining, cleaning and drying your boat and trailer.
We recommend that you follow these steps:
- Thoroughly check the boat and trailer and remove any plants or mussels
- Drain the water from your motor, live well and bilge
- Drain and dry the lower outboard unit
- Thoroughly wash the hull of the watercraft, the trailer, and all equipment with high pressure hot water
- Allow all equipment to air dry at least five days
- Dispose of bait on land, never release live bait into a body of water
It is illegal to buy, sell, possess, import or in any ways use or release live fish, live minnow, or live bait organisms not native to or established in Kentucky.
