Crow Wing County to open AIS decontamination units

By Paul Vold kkin@rjbroadcasting.com (5/27/22)

(Brainerd, MN) — Crow Wing County, starting today (May 27th), will be opening their Aquatic Invasive Species decontamination stations to help stop the spread of AIS.

The County has a permanent decontamination unit located at the Crosslake Joint Highway Maintenance Facility off Highway 3, at 13870 Whipple Drive, which is fully staffed from 9am-6pm, Thursday through Sunday.

A mobile decontamination unit will be located throughout Crow Wing County at public access and will be fully staffed 9am-6pm, Friday through Sunday. To get the location of the mobile unit, call 218-824-1055 or text CWCDECON to 1-833-258-7509.

Decontamination is available to boaters free of charge with priority given to boaters who have been referred by watercraft inspectors or law enforcement present at the landings. Watercraft decontamination consists of a very hot water rinse used to kill zebra mussels and, if needed, a high-pressure spray to remove material from boats, motors, trailers, and personal gear. The station is operated by DNR-trained and certified inspectors who ensure the process effectively and safely removes or kills AIS.To discuss AIS or other land use related issues, contact the Crow Wing County Land Services office at 218-823-1010 or reach them by email.