Clean, Drain, Dry Your Boat
Texas waterways are under attack by invasive species. Invasive plants like giant salvinia can double in size in a week and block boating and fishing access. And species like zebra mussels can hinder water recreation, damage boats and affect water supplies.
To prevent the spread of invasive species, boaters are required to drain all water from their boat and gear before approaching or leaving a public fresh water body. Failure to immediately remove and lawfully dispose of any harmful or potentially harmful aquatic plant that is clinging or attached to a vessel, watercraft, trailer, motor vehicle, or other device used to transport or launch a vessel or watercraft is unlawful. The penalty for the first offense is a fine of up to $500. The penalty for a repeat offense is a fine of up to $2,000, and/or up to 180 days in jail.
It is recommended these steps be followed before traveling from lake to lake:
- Clean. Inspect your boat, trailer and gear and remove all plant material, mud and foreign objects.
- Drain. Remove all water from the boat, including the motor, bilge, livewells and bait buckets.
- Dry. Open all compartments and allow the boat and trailer to dry for at least a week or more before entering another body of water. If the boat and trailer cannot be dried for at least a week, wash them with high-pressure, hot soapy water.
If your boat has been stored in the water on a lake with zebra mussels, it needs to be decontaminated before moving it! Call (512) 389-4848 for guidance.