News

At Easy Step Boat Trailers, we know it can be overwhelming to hear about all the issues in today’s lakes. Pollution, invasive species, algae blooms…the list goes on and on.

In Tyler, Texas, where Easy Step is located, our lakes are a precious local resource, as are all Texas lakes. Whether you’re a recreational boater enjoying a boat trip or whether you’re out for a fishing trip, clean water is essential. Freshwater fishing and bass fishing especially require an unpolluted environment.

The good news is, as a boat owner, there are many easy ways you can make a positive difference in a lake’s ecosystem and the environment as a whole.  Here are some tips to help keep our lakes pristine and boating enjoyable:

Stop the Spread of Invasive Species

Invasive species in inland lakes are a problem country-wide. Species such as the Zebra Mussel and giant Salvinia plant are becoming real concerns in Texas lakes. Most of these non-native species came into the lakes as hitchhikers on boats. When moving a boat from one lake to another, there are ways you can help ensure you don’t transport unwanted passengers.

Invasive species can be transported in your boat’s live-well, via the motor, bait, trailers, and boat hulls. At Easy Step, we make our boat trailer steps not just for boating safety and accessibility, but they also make cleaning your boat easier.

A few ways to protect lake ecosystems and stop the spread of invasive species:

• Drain your boat completely of all standing water, including live wells.
• Wash your boat thoroughly, and let dry in the sun for at least several days.
• Don’t release your bait into the lake.
• Inspect your entire boat and trailer for hitchhikers such as seaweed.
• Clean Without Toxic Products

The majority of cleaning products on the market are toxic! However, there are alternatives to these products that are much safer for you and the environment:

• Use a pressure washer. You can get your boat and trailer just as clean without using any toxic chemicals. Spray away!

• Vinegar and lemon juice are both excellent cleaners. Simply dilute a few tablespoons in two cups of water and put in a spray bottle. These two powerful natural cleaners also have the benefit of disinfecting while killing mold and mildew.

• Baking soda is abrasive and is good for scrubbing away difficult to remove stains.
• A product commonly used aboard boats that most people don’t think of as toxic for the waters is sunscreen. A chemical found in most sunscreens, oxybenzone, has proven to damage fish development. Thankfully, many excellent alternatives have become available. Check your sunscreen’s ingredients and avoid those that contain oxybenzone.

• Be Responsible with Your Fuel- Fuel spills are at fault for a large portion of the pollution in inland lake ecosystems. A quart of oil can skim the water’s surface for over 300 yards. Oil not only pollutes the water, but it is harmful to local plants and wildlife. But oil spills are easily preventable!

• Keep your motor serviced, and make sure when you’re adding oil, you do it on land.

• Oil absorbent pads are incredibly handy—make sure you dispose of them properly.

• Be vigilant when fueling your boat. Most spills are unintentional. However, boat fuel is a major pollutant in lakes, and prevention can make a big difference.

Responsible Boat Maintenance

Many substances associated with boat maintenance are toxic, including the paint. Waiting until your boat is on land to work on upkeep projects can help keep pollutants out of local waterways.

• Perform routine boat maintenance away from any body of water. Especially painting and scraping.
• Proper maintenance and disposal of sewage when boating is very important. It’s often suggested to use additives in boat toilets. These additives are toxic to the marine ecosystem, and not necessary when things are kept clean. Always properly dispose of your waste in designated and legal dumping areas.

Be Aware of Your Trash

Nothing can ruin a relaxing day on the lake, like seeing trash piled on the shores or floating past. Trash that blows or is thrown out of boats is a significant portion of the mess on a lake’s shoreline. This trash is not just an eyesore, but also has a serious effect on the environment. Birds, fish, turtles, and other animals can die from ingesting plastic. You can make a significant positive difference in a lake’s ecosystem by keeping track of your trash and making sure it’s properly disposed of. Keep a trash can or bags handy in your boat at all times.

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

• Boat engines have come a long way. Research engines that are more fuel-efficient.
• Be aware of how you drive your boat to maximize fuel usage and efficiency.
• In some instances, biodiesel might be an option to power your boat. Research whether this or other renewable energy sources might be an option for you.

Whether you like boating for recreation or fishing, a healthy lake ecosystem is necessary. Today, because of human impact, our lakes and waterways are becoming more polluted. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Many people feel like there’s nothing they can do to make a difference, which is simply untrue. Everything you do, big and little, can make a positive impact on the lake’s ecosystem. From picking up your trash to using non-toxic cleaning supplies to properly washing your boat and being aware of invasive species, your efforts make a difference.

Easy Step knows what a precious resource our lakes are, and we hope these tips help you have a positive impact on our lakes – whether in Tyler, East Texas, throughout the state, or any of our nation’s beautiful lakes.