DNR NEW/IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[Lee Borgersen]

           DNR NEWS -- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

More Minnesota businesses now required to take aquatic invasive species training


The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is offering aquatic invasive species (AIS) training to owners of lake service provider businesses so they can legally work in lakes and rivers throughout the state.

Businesses such as resorts and outfitters that rent, lease or decontaminate boats and other water-related equipment are now required to attend AIS training and acquire a permit under a state law change that took effect last July. These businesses are considered lake service providers, which means they must attend training, apply for a permit, and pay a $50 application fee every three years to comply with Minnesota law. $$$$$$$

"Before this change, the law applied only to businesses such as marinas, dock haulers, lawn irrigators and others who install or remove equipment from state waters for hire," said April Rust, DNR AIS training coordinator. "The law change means many more businesses will need to attend training to learn about the threat of zebra mussels and other invasive species, and how to prevent their spread."

Seventeen free AIS training sessions are planned around the state. Registering for the winter and early spring sessions will give businesses time to attend training and get a permit before ice-out. Registration deadlines are one week prior to each training.

A list of all 2014 training sessions is available at http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/rlp/permits/lsp/lsp-ais-training.pdf.