Person rowing a kayak through a mist covered lake with tall trees in the background

Clean Drain Dry

Hey there, fellow water lovers! Are you ready to join forces with like-minded boaters across Canada to protect our beautiful waterways? Let’s dive into the simple yet crucial steps of Clean Drain Dry and make a big difference together!

Why It Matters

When we enjoy our favorite water activities, we can unintentionally help spread invasive aquatic plants, animals, and diseases. These hitchhikers latch onto boats, paddles, and fishing gear, spreading quickly and disrupting ecosystems.

Aquatic invasive species don’t just harm wildlife—they impact fishing, recreation, and even local economies. Many communities, including Indigenous Nations who have stewarded these waters for generations, rely on clean, healthy lakes and rivers for food, cultural traditions, and livelihoods. Protecting these waters is a shared responsibility, and Clean Drain Dry is one of the easiest ways to help.

Clean Drain Dry logo

Clean Drain Dry Steps

Following these three simple steps can prevent the spread of invasive species:

  • CLEAN: Inspect your boat, trailer, paddles, fishing gear, and boots for mud, plants, or small critters. Remove and dispose of anything you find before leaving the water.

  • DRAIN: Empty all standing water from your boat, live wells, ballast tanks, bilge, and gear. Even tiny droplets can transport microscopic invaders!

  • DRY: Let all equipment dry completely between trips. Sun and air naturally help eliminate aquatic invaders before they spread.

Man in bathing suit sitting on a paddle board with his feet in the water

Best Practices

  • Always Clean, Drain, and Dry – Make it a habit before moving between waterbodies.

  • Never Transport Live Fish or Plants – Keep species where they belong.

  • Report Sightings – If you see an aquatic invasive species, report it to your province’s environmental authorities.

  • Educate Others – Share what you know! The more people practice Clean Drain Dry, the stronger our waters will be.

Note: Provinces and territories have varying regulations and requirements regarding cleaning, draining, and drying watercraft. Learn more about your own province’s or territory’s rules below.

Eurasian Water Milfoil

Indigenous Stewardship & Water Protection

For many Indigenous communities, water is more than a resource, it’s a lifeline. Healthy lakes and rivers support traditional fishing, ceremonies, and ways of life. Invasive species threaten these connections by damaging fish populations, water quality, and habitats.

Many Indigenous-led conservation initiatives emphasize the importance of responsibility, respect, and sustainability in protecting water. By adopting Clean Drain Dry habits, we can all contribute to this shared mission of environmental stewardship.

Take the Pledge to Clean Drain Dry!

Aquatic invasive species spread quickly—and easily. If you boat, fish, or paddle, you might unknowingly transport them from lake to lake. Clean Drain Dry is a proven, effective way to stop them in their tracks and protect Canada’s waterbodies.

Name
Pledge Statements
I pledge to Clean Drain Dry my watercraft and gear—every single time.

Resource Library

Want to spread the word? We’ve got the tools to help:

  • Eye-catching boat launch signs
  • Fun decals
  • Informative rack cards & fact sheets
  • Materials available in English, French, and Indigenous languages upon request

Join as a partner, and we can even customize these resources for your region!

Invasives Canada CDD Boating logo
Invasives Canada CDD Canoe logo
Invasives Canada CDD Fish hook logo
Invasives Canada CDD Fishing logo

Provincial & Territorial Requirements Across Canada

The National Clean Drain Dry program works alongside existing provincial and territorial initiatives. Check out the regulations in your area to ensure you’re following best practices!

  • Alberta – Report aquatic invasive species at 1-855-336-BOAT (2628).

  • British Columbia – Stop at all invasive mussel inspection stations; report concerns to 1-877-952-7277.

  • Manitoba – Follow strict AIS regulations, including seasonal restrictions.

  • Saskatchewan – Always remove drain plugs before transporting boats and stop at inspection stations.

Let’s work together to keep our waters healthy and vibrant—for today and for future generations!