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Residents and lake groups urge action on wake-surf boats and ballast systems to prevent invasive mussels
Summary
Multiple public commenters told the board wake-surf boats' ballast systems retain water and pose a high risk for spreading quagga and zebra mussels; speakers asked for decontamination infrastructure, certification and possible legislative action or temporary restrictions.
Three public presenters before the board on Jan. 22 urged the department and board to act on wake-surf boats and ballast systems, which they said retain water that can transport aquatic invasive species (AIS) such as quagga mussels.
Attorney Jim Olson reviewed open-records material and scientific studies that show wake-ballast systems can retain multiple gallons of water even after operators attempt to drain tanks. He noted Wisconsin Administrative Code NR 19.055 requires draining ballast systems and other boat water…
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