May 30, 2013

New ANS media kit can help news sources spread the word about aquatic hitchhikers

TOPEKA ­– As Kansans take advantage of the warming weather to get out to their favorite lake or river, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) reminds them they play a critical role in preventing the spread of aquatic invaders that threaten Kansas waters.

News media wanting to help outdoor enthusiasts learn about protecting Kansas waters from aquatic nuisance species (ANS) can now download short radio and TV announcements, logos and brochures from the “Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers” website at ProtectKSWaters.org. These tools are located under “ANS Media Kit” at the bottom of the page.

ANS are animals and plants not native to Kansas that can threaten lake and river ecology, harm native or desirable species, and interfere with our economy. They often hitchhike with unsuspecting people who may unknowingly transport an ANS to a previously uninfested body of water.

The list of ANS currently affecting Kansas waters include Asian carp, zebra mussels, white perch, Eurasian watermilfoil, rudd, curly-leaf pondweed, and hydrilla and purple loosestrife. In favorable conditions, species numbers can explode, and once established, they are seldom eradicated.

Boaters, anglers, and water-goers are reminded:

CLEAN, DRAIN, AND DRY – boats and equipment after every visit to any lake or river.

DON'T MOVE LIVE FISH – between bodies of water or up streams.

DON'T DUMP BAIT IN THE WATER OR DRAINAGE DITCHES – Instead, discard it on dry land or in an approved receptacle.

For more information on how you can help combat ANS, visit ProtectKSWaters.org.

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