![Fines to Double For Invasive Species Violations](http://townsquare.media/site/67/files/2011/09/warrior_boats_warrior_boats_llc-300x218.jpg?w=980&q=75)
Fines to Double For Invasive Species Violations
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Fines for violating Minnesota's aquatic invasive species laws double Sunday when tougher laws take effect.
Minnesota law prohibits the possession or transport of any aquatic invasive species, including zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil and spiny waterfleas.
The Department of Natural Resources says the violation rate among Minnesota boaters and anglers is at an unacceptable 20 percent.
Failure to remove a drain plug while transporting a watercraft will mean a $100 fine instead of a $50. The fine for unlawfully possessing and transporting prohibited species will jump from $250 to $500.
Boaters and anglers are required to clean aquatic plants and animals off their boats, trailers and equipment; to drain their bait buckets, bilges and live wells before leaving any water access; and to keep drain plugs out while transporting water-related equipment.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved)
More From AM 1240 WJON
![St. Ben’s, St. John’s Official Higher Ed Partners with MN United](http://townsquare.media/site/70/files/2019/11/soccer_ball_getty_Michael-Regan_Getty24.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Gas Prices Fall in Minnesota, Rise Nationally](http://townsquare.media/site/67/files/2023/04/attachment-GettyImages-97962772.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![St. Cloud’s Coborn’s, CentraCare Make List of Biggest Minnesota Employers](http://townsquare.media/site/67/files/2024/07/attachment-Jobs3-Thinkstock-GettyImages.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Central MN Meat Market Introduces 24/7 Meat Vending Machine](http://townsquare.media/site/67/files/2024/07/attachment-Jen-and-Travis.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Becker Woman Hurt in Crash Near Spicer](http://townsquare.media/site/67/files/2023/06/State-Patrol-Stock-2.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Get Ready For Change: Minnesota Introduces Area Code 924 Overlay](http://townsquare.media/site/67/files/2024/07/attachment-NewAreaCode.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![MSP Ranked Top U.S. Airport in 2024](http://townsquare.media/site/67/files/2024/07/attachment-MAC_MSP-Airport_Terminal-1_Delta_6x4_200.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![Riding High: Amtrak Borealis Trains Impress In First Month](http://townsquare.media/site/67/files/2024/07/attachment-AmtrakBorealis-AmtrakHandoutPhoto.jpg?w=980&q=75)
![90s Possible in Minnesota this Weekend](http://townsquare.media/site/669/files/2021/07/attachment-RS45164_GettyImages-1150050227-scr.jpg?w=980&q=75)