DNR: Violations up for aquatic invasive species
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says it's seeing a high level of violations of regulations designed to stop the spread of zebra mussels and other aquatic invaders.
• Map: Aquatic invasive species spread across Minn.
The DNR says it's ramping up enforcement this weekend as a result.
DNR enforcement manager Greg Salo said the DNR has established roadside check stations around the state this summer.
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"We've done nine of them around the so state this year. And we're running a 26 percent violation rate. That means one out of every four boats coming into these check stations, are in viotion of one of our AIS laws, our aquatic invasive species laws. The most common violation we're seeing is failing to remove the drain plug," he said.
Salo said drain plugs have to be removed while watercraft are being transported.
Enforcement officers have written 169 tickets this season, and that the fines can run more than $100 per incident, he said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report