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Stricter public water exit regulations

Published (3/11/2010)
By Sue Hegarty
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Just two months shy of the fishing opener, anglers may want to take note of a bill that would require more stringent rules when exiting public waters.

Sponsored by Rep. Karla Bigham (DFL-Cottage Grove), HF3355 would require people leaving public waters to drain bait buckets and all boating-related equipment that contain water, except marine toilets, before driving away. This means drain plugs, bailers, valves and other devices used to drain water from ballast tanks, bilges and livewells.

The measures are needed to help prevent the transport of invasive species, Bigham said.

The fine for failing to drain water from watercraft or equipment before driving away would increase from $50 to $250. Those who want to keep leftover bait minnows to use elsewhere had better bring clean, fresh water along to replace the water in their buckets, advised Bigham.

The House Environment Policy and Oversight Committee approved the bill March 9 and referred it to the House Civil Justice Committee. Sen. Julie Rosen (R-Fairmont) sponsors its companion, SF3140, which rests with the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee.

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