As the Fourth of July approaches, the Iowa DNR is reminding boaters and anglers to take a minute and check for any unwanted hitchhikers and protect Iowa lakes and streams.

Zebra mussels and Eurasian watermilfoil are two aquatic invasive species that have spread across Iowa by hitchhiking on boats, in bait buckets, and with other equipment used in the water. Bighead and silver carp are two other aquatic invasive species that have been spreading on their own throughout Iowa rivers. Last year's flooding helped these carp species swim around dams that otherwise blocked their movement.

A new state record 79 pound 4 ounce bighead carp was caught last week from the Cedar River in Cedar Rapids. Even though anglers enjoy catching these large fish, all aquatic invaders can create serious problems when they become established in our waters.

"Public action is the key to preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species," said Kim Bogenschutz, DNR Aquatic Invasive Species Program Coordinator. "Boaters and anglers can unintentionally transport aquatic hitchhikers if they do not take the proper precautions to prevent their spread - inspect, clean, drain."

It is illegal to possess or transport prohibited aquatic invasive species in Iowa. The fine for violating this law is $500. Signs are posted at public accesses to remind boaters to stop aquatic hitchhikers and to identify infested waters. More information about aquatic invasive species and a list of infested waters can be found in the 2009 Iowa Fishing Regulations booklet.