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Protect
South Carolina Waters and Stop
Aquatic Hitchhiker
Keep South Carolina aquatic resources
working for you, naturally!
South Carolina boasts some of the best fishing, shelling,
boating and beaches in the country. However, without
the help of everyone who visits our lakes, rivers,
estuaries and oceans, South Carolina 's natural resources
will be threatened by unassuming creatures that hitchhike
with us from one source of water to another. These
hitchhikers can cause economic damages to the state;
for example - in South Carolina, sportfishing generates
$659 million in retail sales annually, and supports
13,600 jobs. The state has spent over $14 million
since 1985 to control nuisance aquatic weeds in public
waters.
YOU CAN STOP AQUATIC HITCHHIKERS:
Freshwater
Marine
Clean all Recreational Equipment Before
and After Using all South Carolina Waters
Aquatic nuisance species can hitch a ride on our
boats, trailers, and other items used in the water.
When we go to another lake or stream, the nuisance
species can be released; if the conditions are right,
they can become established and create drastic results.
If you follow the recommended
procedures, for the most part it is not necessary
to know what nuisance species may be in what waters;
the procedures will reduce the possibility of unwanted
hitchhikers being released in your waters.
Recommended Boat, Motor, and Trailer
Cleaning Procedure
Regular cleaning of your boat, motor, and trailer
before and after using all South Carolina waters can
greatly reduce the spread of aquatic nuisance species.
It takes just a minute to protect our waterways.
Where to look for aquatic hitchhikers on boats.
Aquatic Nuisance Species of Primary Concern
• Aquatic Plants: Hydrilla, water hyacinth, water lettuce, Giant Salvinia, Phragmites
• Invertebrates: Green Mussels, Zebra Mussels (Not here yet, but)
• Fish: flathead catfish, spotted bass, Asian carp, lionfish
Aquatic Nuisance Species Introduction Concerns
• Aquarium pets
• Ornamental pond plants
• Invasive bait fish and crayfish
• Invasive aquaculture species
• Marine fish, shellfish, shrimp, and associated pathogens and diseases
• Ballast water discharge
Links to Learn More
South Carolina Saltwater Fishing
SC Department of Natural Resources
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