Going Coastal

Hitching rides on boats, paddles,  and gear, non-native plants and animals get easy passage from one body of water to another.  At Going Coastal, we’re on a mission to protect our waterways from the threat of aquatic hitchhikers – those pesky nuisance species that can wreak havoc on our beloved ecosystems. 🌊

You help to make a real difference!

Here’s how:

🧼 Step 1: Clean It Up!

Before you bid farewell to the water, take a moment to clean and dry anything that’s been in contact with the water – your boats, trailers, paddles, boots, and even your furry friends. By doing so, you’re stopping these unwanted hitchhikers from catching a ride to a new habitat.

🌱 Step 2: Clear Out the Nasties!

Inspect your equipment and gear. Remove any visible mud, plants, fish, or critters. Give them the boot before you head to a different water body. We’re all about preventing the spread of trouble!

💧 Step 3: Leave No Water Behind!

Make sure to eliminate every last drop of water from your equipment and dry it before you hit the road. Empty those buckets, tanks, and reservoirs to ensure you’re not giving aquatic hitchhikers a free ride.

🚫 Step 4: No Foreign Friends Allowed!

Never release foreign plants, fish, or animals into a body of water unless they naturally belong there. We want to keep the local ecosystems intact and thriving.

🚤 Step 5: Engine and Livewell Care!

Give your engines a good flush and dispose of any water, bait, or livewell contents far away from the shore after each use.

Take every precaution to ensure you are not transporting trouble.

Remember, it only takes a few extra minutes to inspect and clean your gear every time you leave the water. By adopting these simple steps, you’re becoming a guardian of our precious waterways. Let’s put a stop to aquatic hitchhikers and ensure our ecosystems thrive for generations to come! 🌿🌎 #StopAquaticHitchhikers #ProtectOurWaterways #GoingCoastalConservation