Water Enthusiasts To Attend Workshops On How To Prevent The Spread Of Aquatic Invasive Species
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SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) in conjunction with partners invites the public to learn how to prevent the further spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) in California’s waterways. Several workshops will be held in Northern California starting in early April to help the public learn about the effects AIS can have on the economy and the environment, how to recognize AIS in their region, and how to take action to prevent it from spreading. Workshops are free, but spaces are limited and pre-registration is required.
Aquatic invasive species such as quagga and zebra mussels, water hyacinth and Brazilian waterweed pose threats to California’s water delivery systems, hydroelectric facilities, agriculture, boating, fishing and the environment. Recreational activities, including boating and fishing, can spread AIS from infested waters to uninfested waters.
“Everyone accessing California’s waterways can learn about simple actions to avoid spreading AIS each time they leave a waterbody,” said DBW’s Acting Deputy Director Ramona Fernandez. “AIS specialists will provide current prevention information to boaters, anglers and marina operators.”
In addition to DBW, AIS experts from the California Coastal Commission, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will be on hand at these workshops.
Workshops dates include:
Wednesday, April 4 – Morgan Hill
Deadline to register: Friday, March 30
Time: 8:45 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Partner: Santa Clara County Parks
Thursday, April 12 – West Sacramento
Deadline to register: Friday, April 6
Time: 8:45 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Partner: Sacramento Yacht Club
Wednesday, June 13 – Sausalito
Deadline to register: Friday, June 8
Time: 8:45 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Partner: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Bay Model
To register, please contact Boating Clean and Green’s Program Coordinator Vivian Matuk via email at vmatuk@coastal.ca.gov or phone (415) 904-6905. Location and directions to the workshop are included with confirmation of the registration. Free parking is available at the workshop sites. Lunch will not be provided.
The AIS workshops are part of the California’s Boating Green and Clean Program. The program is an education and outreach program conducted through the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways and the California Coastal Commission. Staff and volunteers promote environmentally-sound boating practices to marine businesses and boaters. For more information, please visit www.BoatingCleanAndGreen.com.
