Flashing Lights, Bright Signs Used to Fight Invasive Species

Star Tribune photo

Up in Minnesota’s Hennepin County, officials are trying a different tactic to minimize the spread of invasive species, such as zebra mussels and Eurasian watermilfoil.

The Star Tribune reports:

Instead of a bare parking lot with brown signs, boaters now are greeted by tall signs replicating red, yellow and green flashing stoplights and listing simple prompts to remove weeds. Bright signs in blue -- thought to be a more empowering color -- reinforce positive messages such as "You can protect these waters."

And large, colorful markers on the pavement direct boaters to specific inspection areas.

"This hasn't really been done before," said Tony Brough, a senior environmentalist who has seen more boaters complying with state invasive species prevention laws since the signs were installed. "That proves to be more effective than 'Do it or else.'"