I-Phones Help Defend Against Invasive Species

 
 
Brooklyn Center, MN – In efforts to help curb the spread of invasive species, a unique partnership between Wildlife Forever, Hennepin County and the Star Tribune uses geo-targeted marketing to inform, educate and protect Minnesota lakes.

"Geo-fencing" technology works with smart phone users who are prompted with a message once they enter a chosen area. In Hennepin County, the invasive species message of Clean Drain Dry pops up on screen when nearing Lake Minnetonka and Lake of the Isles. The goal is to inform boaters, anglers and residents, while using their phones, that invasive species are present and how a few simple steps can help stop their spread.
Phone pr
"Utilizing smart phone technology to raise awareness of how easy Clean Drain Dry prevention can be is another great tool to engage the public and help protect the resource," said Pat Conzemius, Conservation Director for Wildlife Forever. "This technology allows us to target specific lakes with a tailored message. The consistent look and feel also resonates well with other efforts going on across the state and country," said Conzemius.

Tony Brough from Hennepin County Environment and Energy said, "Everyone is on their phone, it only makes sense to use that same technology to help raise awareness and slow the spread. This project is also a good example of collaboration across different sectors of public, private and conservation groups working together to fight invasive species."

Wildlife Forever and partners all across the country are encouraging boaters, anglers and lakeshore property owners to Clean Drain Dry all water related equipment.

For more information on how this technology and partnership can help you, contact Wildlife Forever.

The Clean Drain Dry Initiative works to consolidate national invasive species messaging by strategically focusing content and communications on prevention. To sponsor or partner with Clean Drain Dry activities in your state or organization, contact: Pat Conzemius, PConzemius@WildlifeForever.org

About Wildlife Forever: Wildlife Forever's mission is to conserve America's wildlife heritage through conservation education, preservation of habitat and management of fish and wildlife. For over 27 years, WF members have helped to conduct thousands of fish, game and habitat conservation projects across the country. To join or learn more about WF's award-winning programs, including work to engage America's youth, visit www.WildlifeForever.org.