Lake service providers urged to complete mandatory training and permitting

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Lake service providers urged to complete mandatory training and permitting
(Released March 15, 2012)


With ice-out arriving soon, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is urging lake service providers to complete mandatory aquatic invasive species training and obtain a permit before providing any services.

“Preventing the spread of invasive species is an important responsibility for all Minnesotans, and lake service providers must do their part, too,” said Luke Skinner, DNR invasive species unit supervisor.

Service providers are individuals or businesses who install or remove water-related equipment such as boats, docks, boat lifts or structures from waters of the state. State law now requires them to obtain a DNR permit before providing any services. The DNR will implement and enforce the new requirement during the 2012 open water season.

All service providers must complete invasive species training and pass an examination in order to get a permit. To date, 18 training sessions have been given statewide and seven more are scheduled. More training dates and locations will be added to the website at http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/lsp/index.html as they are scheduled.

Service providers must complete the training and apply online for their permit. Upon receipt of an application, a $50 application fee and verification of training, a permit will be issued. The service provider permit is valid for three years and must be in possession while providing any services.

Currently there are 155 permitted service providers statewide. An updated list is available on the website.

Service provider employees are also required to complete DNR aquatic invasive species training, which is offered online. To get receive training, service provider employees must log onto a training Web page, complete the invasive aquatic species training, review laws and precautions and receive a printed certificate.

This online training is available at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/lsp/employeetraining.html

[Lee Borgersen]

I just sent a copy of this to my resort owner in Ely this afternoon. His reply to me  was as follows.

 "Hi Lee,

 

I just took it this week.  They're really going all out on this.

 

Take care,"


Bob