FOR RELEASE: May 24, 2007

 

For More Information:  Phil Moy, UW Sea Grant Fisheries & Invasive Species Specialist, (608) 221-5909

See also:  www.seagrant.wisc.edu/ais and www.protectyourwaters.net

Special Memorial Day Weekend Message

Fatal Fish Virus Underscores Need to Clean Boats, Fishing Gear

MANITOWOC, Wis. (May 24, 2007)—The deadly fish virus discovered recently in two Wisconsin lakes underscores the need for anglers and boaters to make a special effort over the Memorial Day weekend—and throughout the summer—to avoid spreading invasive species, according to Philip Moy, fisheries and invasive species specialist for the University of Wisconsin Sea Grant Institute.

“The same precautions you should take to prevent the spread of invasive species will also help keep this fish virus contained,” Moy said. “Boaters and anglers need to clean their craft and equipment every time they move from one water body to another. This is now more important than ever.”

Moy urged all boaters and anglers on all waters to follow these recommendations:

• INSPECT your boat, trailer and fishing equipment and remove all aquatic plants.
• DRAIN all water from the boat, motor, bilge, live well, and bait wells and buckets.
• DISPOSE of leftover bait in a trash bin, never in the water.
• RINSE your boat, trailer and equipment with hot water (at least 104 degrees Fahrenheit), or thoroughly dry them in the sun for at least five days before entering a new body of water.

The virus—viral hemorrhagic septicemia, or VHS—has killed hundreds of sheepshead in Lake Winnebago and Little Lake Butte des Mortes this month. Officials fear it may spread throughout the state, possibly killing large numbers of sport fish. Nearly 50 species of fish are known to be susceptible to VHS.

VHS only affects cold-blooded animals and poses no threat to humans.

Prior to the Wisconsin outbreak, VHS had been detected only in Great Lakes waters east of Michigan, where it is blamed for killing thousands of fish last year. Moy said its sudden appearance in Little Lake Butte des Mortes shows just how rapidly and how far the disease can spread—especially if transported via trailerable boats.

It is not known how VHS was introduced to the Great Lakes–St. Lawrence River system, but genetic evidence suggests the virus originated from Atlantic coastal waters of North America.

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Conceived in 1966, Sea Grant is a national network of 30 university-based programs of research, outreach, and education for enhancing the practical use and conservation of coastal, ocean and Great Lakes resources to create a sustainable economy and environment. The National Sea Grant Network is a partnership of participating coastal states, private industry, and the National Sea Grant College Program, National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce.

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