There is ample evidence of non-motorized boats being capable of transporting dreissenid mussels and other aquatic invasive species as reported by state watercraft inspection and decontamination…

There is ample evidence of non-motorized boats being capable of transporting dreissenid mussels and other aquatic invasive species as reported by state watercraft inspection and decontamination program managers. Non-motorized craft remain a lower risk for aquatic invasive species spread when compared to motorized craft. However, inspectors find dreissenid mussels attached to non-motorized craft each year. These crafts have continued to become increasingly complex with pedal drive systems, aftermarket equipment and add-ONS, and a greater number of compartments, ultimately increasing their risk of aquatic invasive species transport. Additionally, state program managers report that non-motorized boaters fail to stop at watercraft inspection and decontamination stations. Non-motorized boaters may not be aware or do not comply with watercraft inspection and decontamination rules for mandatory inspection, as they may not believe IT applies to their craft or are unaware of regulations. Paddlesports can be more accessible - based on budget and accessing recreation opportunities - than motorized boating and is an easy entry to on-water recreation. Those new to non-motorized boating may simply be new to invasive species issues and their link to recreation. Combining the heightened risk of transport due to increasingly complex crafts with a greater number of boaters and their reduced compliance, when compared to their motorized boating counterparts, is call for concern. Isan recognizes that the landscape of non-motorized boating demands consistent education and simple messaging, such as clean drain dry, to ensure that both new and seasoned boaters are exposed to prevention outreach and made aware of watercraft inspection and decontamination regulations. To date, isan has been able to utilize qzap funding to work collaboratively with non-motorized boating manufacturers to directly share messaging on clean drain dry to prevent the spread of invasive species and encourage inspection station compliance with their specific product at the point of sale. This effort engages manufacturers on the issue of invasive species and their long-term participation in IT. Expanding and continuing these efforts will further enforce preventative measures for the paddling community and ultimately encourage clean drain dry behaviors as a cultural norm within the community. We propose a multi-faceted effort to provide education and outreach directly to the non-motorized boating community through manufacturers and large retailers at the point of sale, targeted advertising and social media, and multi-media and in-person efforts at consumer and athletic events.