Nebraskaland Magazine
I am afraid the threat from aquatic invasive species requires all of us to do what we can to prevent their spread. We have advertised these workshops before, but I want to give them some more publicity:
Two watercraft inspection workshops scheduled
LINCOLN, Neb. – Watercraft inspection workshops are scheduled for Feb. 22 at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area Visitor Center and March 1 at Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium.
The workshops, which begin at 7 p.m., will provide an overview of the current Nebraska Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Program, current regulations, status of these problem species across Nebraska, things boat owners, operators and/or mechanics need to look for and what they can do to prevent the spread of AIS, and steps to remove AIS from watercraft.
AIS are any waterborne, non-native organism that threatens the diversity or abundance of native species, the ecological stability of impacted waters, or commercial, agricultural, aquacultural or recreational activities.
The spread of AIS across the country, as well as Nebraska, remains an issue. Populations of one species, the zebra mussel, are present in the Offutt Base Lake, Lewis and Clark Lake, and the Missouri River. The most effective way to combat the problem is through education and training.
The workshops are free, but registration is required. Contact Dave Tunink at dave.tunink@nebraska.gov or 402-471-5553, and provide a name and number of people attending.
The Lake McConaughy Visitor Center is located north of Ogallala on Nebraska Highway 61. The aquarium is located south of Gretna on Nebraska Highway 31.
If you are interested and can attend one of those workshops, please contact Dave Tunink at the e-mail address or phone number listed in the news release. We need your help!
