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Clean off invasive species from your outdoor gear - Tips for trail users
Photo credit: Kim Lanahan-Lahti,r
MN Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry

Tips for Trail Users

Overview

Invasive species have many pathways of spread. For instance, weed seeds move easily in soil, so muddy boots or vehicles can move weed seeds. Some weed seeds have special hooks to help them hitch a ride. Thus, weed seeds can spread on our shoes, socks, clothing, and pets. Whether walking, hiking, running, biking, or riding your horse or off highway vehicle (OHV), it's important to make sure you don't accidentally move invasive species from place to place.

Come Clean

Before leaving home, take a little time to inspect and remove dirt, plants, and bugs from clothing, boots, gear, pets, and vehicles.

Weed-Free Hay

When horseback riding, use weed-free or certified hay. When using hay for other purposes and weed-free hay is not available, use straw because it is less likely to carry weed seeds.

Designated Trails

Stay on the designated trail when walking, hiking, running, biking, or riding your horse or off highway vehicle (OHV).

Leave Clean

Before leaving, inspect your belongings and remove any dirt, plants, or bugs. Invasive plant seeds can be stuck on you, your pets, or equipment. Weed seeds in infested hay can be blown offsite as you move down the road or left behind in animal waste.

Information on this page is provided by PlayCleanGo.org.

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