Wisconsin DNR's "Drain Campaign" And "Free Fun Weekend" This Weekend

Saturday, June 3rd, 2023 -- 7:40 AM

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds boaters and anglers to help protect Wisconsin's rivers, streams and lakes during this weekend's Drain Campaign.

The annual Drain Campaign this weekend focuses on the importance for boaters and anglers to always drain their livewells and fish buckets before leaving boat launches and fishing access points. Boat inspectors from Clean Boats, Clean Waters will be at boat launches across the state promoting draining and handing out blue boat towels printed with the “Drain Your Catch” message.

Draining is one of the important steps to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS), limiting the spread of microscopic larvae of zebra mussels and of diseases, including the fish virus (VHS). In addition to draining livewells and buckets, boaters should pull the drain plugs on their boat and tip their motor straight up and down to drain any local water before securing it for the drive ahead.

This weekend is also the DNR's 11th annual Free Fun Weekend, with state park admission fees, fishing licenses and trail passes waived for all Wisconsin residents and non-residents.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.