Aquatic nuisance species
Aquatic nuisance species, also called ANS, are invasive plants and animals that can damage lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams.
Aquatic nuisance species in Louisville
At this time, Louisville waterways do not have any known aquatic nuisance species.
However, these invasive species exist in nearby areas where people boat, fish, and recreate. Preventing their spread is one of the best ways to protect Louisville's lakes, ponds, and streams.
What problems can aquatic nuisance species cause?
These species often have few natural predators. This allows them to spread quickly and cause serious problems for wildlife, recreation, farms, and water systems.
Aquatic nuisance species can:
- Reduce native fish populations
- Damage aquatic ecosystems
- Clog boat engines and equipment
- Make lakes and rivers harder to use for recreation
- Block pipes used by drinking water and power facilities
- Lower nearby property values
- Interfere with water delivery systems used by farms
How can I help prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species?
You can help protect Louisville's waterways by preventing aquatic nuisance species from moving between bodies of water. Aquatic nuisance species can be transported on watercraft, equipment, clothing, shoes, animal paws and fur, even when they are too small to see with the unaided eye. To help prevent their spread:
Water contact and pets
- Swimming, wading, and other body contact with the water are prohibited.
- Animals are not allowed in the water.
Boating and watercraft
- Boating is allowed only at Harper Lake with a valid permit.
- Gas-powered and electric-powered boats are prohibited in Louisville to reduce wildlife disturbance, protect water quality, and lower the risk of introducing aquatic nuisance species.
- Clean, drain, and dry non-motorized watercraft before moving between waterways.
Fishing and bait
- Out-of-state live bait is prohibited because it may carry aquatic nuisance species.
- If using qualifying live bait purchased in Colorado, keep the receipt with the bait as required.
- Clean, drain, and dry fishing gear and other equipment before moving between waterways.