Addressing barriers to aquatic invasive species prevention behaviors among Illinois recreational water users

The unintentional spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) by Illinois anglers and boaters is of high concern in Illinois. The Be A Hero outreach campaign has successfully raised awareness of the threat of AIS and encouraged some anglers and boaters to “remove, drain, dry” after leaving a waterbody. However, Illinois anglers and boaters are highly transient, and the interconnectedness of waterways means that a small number of water users who are not performing these behaviors are creating high risks of AIS transport. This research was designed to provide information on the factors that contribute to Illinois recreational water users’ engagement in AIS prevention and to test outreach messages that may be effective for those who have not been compliant. Thus, the goal of our study was to provide information to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant and Illinois Natural History Survey about barriers to participation in AIS prevention and strategies for increasing participation rates.