What’s a LANDING BLITZ??

“Recreational boaters and anglers can play a key role in helping prevent the spread of invasive species,” said Kevin Walters, aquatic biologist with EGLE. “Instead of spreading invasive species, we’re asking people to help spread the word about simple steps that can be taken when out recreating on Michigan’s waters.”

Since 2019 Pentwater Lake Association has participated in the Great Lakes Landing Blitz every summer at all 3 local launch/landing sites. (In 2025 over 70 boat landing events occurred in the Great Lakes area.) Pentwater’s 3 sites include: Village Launch, Monroe St. launch and the 90-degree bend launch on Longbridge Rd.

Public awareness about the impacts of harmful, nonnative aquatic plants and animals is critical to protecting Michigan’s ecosystems, tourism and economy. The PLA goal is to educate, train and encourage boaters to help protect our lake from AIS. (aquatic invasive species: both plant and animal)

Required actions – it’s the law in Michigan

• Remove all aquatic organisms, including plants, from watercraft and trailers before launching or transporting.

• Remove all drain plugs and drain all water from bilges, ballast tanks and live wells before transporting a watercraft.

• Dispose of unused bait in the trash, not in the water.

Recommended additional actions – protect our waters by following these steps

• Clean boats, trailers and equipment by removing plants, debris, and mud before leaving the access area. Dispose of the material in a trash receptacle or otherwise away from the water body, if possible.

• Wash boats and trailers before leaving the access area, if possible, or at a nearby car wash or at home.

• Dry boats and equipment for five days before launching into a different water body.

• Disinfect live wells and bilges with a bleach solution (1/2 cup bleach to 5 gallons water.)

AIS Awareness Week is sponsored by EGLE's Water Resources Division, in partnership with the departments of Natural Resources and Agriculture and Rural Development, federal agencies and private and nonprofit organizations. The PLA has been participating in Landing Blitzes since 2019.