NDGF Help Center FAQ
Some special ANS rules are implemented specifically for Class 1 infested ANS waters. What are the specific rules and why did this occur?
When a water has been designated class 1 ANS infested, that means a reproducing population of class 1 ANS, like zebra mussels have been found there.
In addition to other statewide rules, a special restriction is placed on the waterbody to help prevent the spread of the class 1 ANS.
The regulation reads “along any class 1 ANS infested water or any of its tributaries upstream to the first vehicular bridge or crossing, all water must be completely drained from bait containers, including bait buckets, before leaving the river/lake."
Dumping unused bait into a lake, river, or on shore is illegal everywhere in North Dakota; unwanted bait should be disposed of properly by placing in the garbage.
This additional restriction is in place because zebra mussel larve are microscopic, and the risks of unknowingly spreading them in water are dramatically increased with a known, reproducing population.