Okoboji, IA (KICD)– Residents of Okoboji are constantly afraid of invasive plants and animals that might be transplanted to the Iowa Great Lakes and cause havoc. Iowa DNR fisheries biologist Mike Hawkins says boats coming to the area is the biggest threat.
And don’t assume that just because you can’t see invasive species that they’re not there.
Hawkins says a common mistake is forgetting to empty a boat’s bilge or live-well.
In recent years the Okoboji chain has already confirmed zebra mussels, jumping Asian carp, and Eurasian Water Milfoil.