Governor Dayton Proclaims: Clean. Drain. Dry. Day!

At the stroke of midnight on Saturday, May 14th, Governor Mark Dayton will cast his line, proclaim Clean Drain Dry Day, signaling the start to a time-honored tradition, the Minnesota Fishing Opener!

With over 1.6 million anglers hitting the water, fishing opener is the perfect opportunity to educate anglers on the importance of invasive species prevention.  Clean Drain Dry Day recognizes county partners, lake associations and the many advocates united under a common theme working to ensure clean water and a vibrant outdoor economy. 

Minnesota Lakes and Rivers Advocates (MLR) recognizes that vibrant communities rely on healthy natural resources and citizens engaged in the fight against invasive species.  MLR Executive Director Jeff Forester said:  “By presenting the Clean Drain Dry Proclamation at the 2016 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener, all outdoor recreational users are reminded to take action and become part of the solution for protecting our lakes and rivers.”

Working with county agencies, lake associations and civic groups, Wildlife Forever coordinates community outreach and education throughout the state promoting conservation and stopping the spread of invasive species. 

“We can’t fight AIS alone. Clean Drain Dry unites everyone in prevention and I’m happy that Governor Dayton acknowledges the partner accomplishments in preventing the spread” said Pat Conzemius, Conservation Director of Wildlife Forever.  “We are thankful for Minnesota Lakes and Rivers and hundreds of local lake associations working to keep invasive species out of Minnesota's lakes.”

Minnesota is home to some of America’s finest fishing and boating waters. Clean Drain Dry is simple and easy to do and, as the national prevention message, visitors from other states are likely to have seen the message and know how to help. Visual reminders are posted throughout the state on highway billboards, at gas stations, boat ramps, bait shops, social media and on mobile devices.  

Do your part this fishing and boating season: Clean. Drain. Dry. all boats, trailers and gear.

Thank you. Thank you for your advocacy. Thank you for your support. Thank you for your work to protect our public waters

If you have any questions or comments, please call me directly or email me using the information below. It is only by hearing from our members that we can understand and act on the issues important to you. And click the Facebook and Twitter links below - I post articles, announcements, and updates through those social media sites almost daily. It is a great way to keep in touch.

Sincerely,

Jeff Forester
Executive Director
Minnesota Lakes and Rivers Advocates (MLR)
jeff@mnlakesandrivers.org
Cell:  612-961-6144