The first line of defense against invasive aquatic plants such as variable leaf and Eurasian water milfoil, hydrilla, water chestnut, and Brazilian elodea is Maine’s courtesy boat inspectors. Many new infestations occur in shallow waters near public boat launch facilities, so it’s obvious invasive plants move from lake to lake on the boats and equipment of unsuspecting boaters.
If people are the cause, they can also be the cure. Since courtesy boat inspections started, the number of boats inspected has risen from just 2,848 in 2001 to 89,425 in 2021.
What do courtesy boat inspectors, often call CBIs, do? As boaters launch and remove their boats from the water, CBIs:
Where to Inspect – John McPhedran
History of the CBI Program – Maine Lakes Zoom Recording
CBI Coordinator Training – Powerpoint
Boat Inspection Training – For BASS clubs and boating event organizers
