Kylee Gregory

Minnesota defines aquatic invasive species (AIS) as any nonnative species that threatens natural resources and their use, along with causing economic, environmental, or human harm (MN S.S. 84D.01, 2022). Due to the large number of interconnected water bodies, Minnesota is at high risk for aquatic invasive species. Beyond an AIS definition, the state defines preventative measures boaters must take to protect the lakes, including removing their drain plug during transport. Limited research exists on compliance with this, however. Therefore this research observed boater compliance at four Minnesota lakes (n= 109 watercrafts) and if boater type related to compliance. Statistical analysis found 54% did not comply with the drain plug regulation and no significant relationship between boat type and violation (p = 0.55). Additionally, those who stopped to install the drain plug at the landing took an average of 39.7 seconds longer to enter the waterbody, but it was not significantly different. This study highlighted the disparity in compliance rates when entering and leaving the landing with the drain plug installed, emphasizing the need to understand boater behavior and motivations to perform required AIS prevention behaviors. Future research could be expanded by examining boater motivations surrounding AIS prevention, and influence AIS prevention messaging.