The Clean Boats, Clean Waters (CBCW) watercraft inspection program provides an opportunity to take action and help prevent and contain aquatic invasive species (AIS). CBCW is a statewide program that trains volunteers and professionals how to engage boaters and anglers in AIS prevention at their local lake and river boat landings.

CBCW participants have educational conversations with landing visitors about how to help prevent the spread of AIS and assist them in taking prevention steps, while also collecting valuable data. While most participants are part of a lake organization, the program is open to anyone interested in AIS outreach.

Taking simple prevention steps while enjoying Wisconsin’s waters contains and prevents the spread of AIS. ​​Learn how you can help on the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources AIS Prevention webpage​.​

Before you leave the boat landing, it is important to remember to take these steps:

  • INSPECT boats, trailers, and equipment
  • REMOVE all attached aquatic plants and animals
  • DRAIN all water from boats, vehicles, and equipment
  • NEVER MOVE plants or live fish away from a waterbody​

This video walks through the step-by-step process of taking the aquatic invasive species prevention steps.

Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Resources

AIS Publications

Many AIS-specific resource materials (such as brochures, stickers, etc.) are available to assist you in your outreach efforts. Visit our searchable AIS Publication Catalog to see what is available, view an image or printable document, or order free copies for your area. 

Search the AIS Publication Catalog

AIS Contacts

We have numerous AIS staff available to assist you – with general questions, trainings, grant applications, and more! You can search our online database of AIS contacts by their location in the state or by their role/specialty. 

Find the AIS Contact in your area

AIS Distribution

Find out what lakes and rivers have AIS in your area! You can view lists of AIS waters by county, region, or Great Lakes basin, or see a statewide list.

You can also search by species, selecting a specific aquatic invasive and viewing all of the waterbodies in which it is present.

View Distribution Info by Waterbody View Distribution Info by Species

Learn About AIS & Additional Outreach Opportunities

Learn about AIS and prevention practices from our partners at the Wisconsin DNR.

Learn more about AIS View Additional AIS Outreach Opportunities

AIS Laws

Learn more about AIS laws from our partners at the Wisconsin DNR.

Learn about AIS laws
“Not only does CBCW influence us to want to protect our beautiful lakes, it also teaches us to communicate that passion to others. “
Mary DodenButternut and Franklin Lakes, Vilas County

CBCW Gear

The Clean Boats, Clean Waters logo represents Wisconsin’s statewide watercraft inspection program and the myriad of volunteers, professionals, and organizations who are engaged in AIS outreach. CBCW participants are encouraged to wear the bright blue CBCW gear that features the logo while conducting inspections at boat landings. In addition to ensuring easy visibility, the branded gear makes it clear that your CBCW team is a part of a coordinated statewide effort. 

Visit the CBCW online store to view the gear and place an order!

 
 
 
 
headshot of young woman with shoulder length bronze hair smiling wearing a rust-colored hoodie and black vest standing in front of a waterbody.

For more information about Clean Boats, Clean Waters, contact:

Erin McFarlane, Statewide CBCW Educator
(715) 346-4978 or erin.mcfarlane@uwsp.edu

Need help with My Wisconsin ID, SWIMS navigation, or Report Viewing?
LakesSupport@uwsp.edu

A circular blue logo featuring a small boat on waves in the center, with the words “Clean Boats Clean Waters” arranged around the border.

Extension Lakes
College of Natural Resouces, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
800 Reserve St. Stevens Point, WI 54481-3897
Phone: 715-346-2116
Direct comments to lakes@uwsp.edu