The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is asking waterfowl hunters to help protect Texas water bodies from aquatic invasive species. The agency said these species can reduce the quality of waterfowl habitat, block recreational access and harm ecosystems and infrastructure.
TPWD said hunters can help by cleaning, draining and drying boats, trailers, decoys and other hunting gear before traveling from lake to lake. It named giant salvinia, other invasive aquatic plants and zebra mussels as species that can spread this way. The agency said plant fragments can catch on boats, boat trailers and tow vehicles, including around lights, license plates and between the boat and bunks. Waders, decoy bags and marsh sleds should be checked as well.
Tips from recent studies for waterfowl hunters include using a wet/dry vacuum to remove plants before rinsing gear with a hose, and hand-removing plants, mud and organisms from waders and decoys before rinsing them. The studies also suggest using a stiff brush to clean boot treads, draining water from decoys, and adding drain holes to older, cracked decoys that tend to hold water. TPWD said a video on how to clean, drain and dry gear is available.