Aquatic nuisance species and Georgia boaters: An investigation of perceptions and behaviors

Boaters and anglers have been implicated in the spread of aquatic invasive species between disparate bodies of water. Aquatic resource management agencies spend time and money on control efforts to limit both ecological and economic impacts of invasive species. A clearer understanding of the mechanisms of invasion will aid managers in developing educational programs and materials. A survey was conducted to determine perceptions of Georgia boaters related to aquatic nuisance species (ANS) and use of the agency's website. Results indicated that boaters' perceptions of ANS were related to angling-participation and visitation to the website, but not the distance to launch sites from residence (p<0.001, p<0.001, and p=0.805). Frequency of boat cleaning behaviors was related to the distance traveled and angling-participation, but not to use of the website (p<0.001, p<0.001, and p>0.05). Over half of respondents did not purchase a fishing license; therefore, educational material should be targeted at non-anglers. Efforts should be made to increase traffic to the website—less than one-third of respondents visited the website. Georgia could limit the spread of ANS in the state by augmenting and increasing the appeal of available educational materials.