Class needed for Minn. businesses that rent boats
Minnesota businesses that rent boats or canoes must now take an aquatic invasive species class from the Department of Natural Resources.
The law mandating training for lake service providers took effect in 2011.
But DNR aquatic invasive species training coordinator April Rust said the program has been expanded to include more businesses.
"The newer group that we're trying to get the word to especially because they might not be aware that they are now part of this definition are any businesses that are renting or leasing water related equipment," she said.
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Resorts and outfitters are included in the new definition.
Owners must take a class and get a permit, and in most cases, employees need to complete an online training session, said Rust.
Classes start Tuesday and a full schedule is posted on the DNR website.
Businesses operating without a permit face fines up to $175 for each violation.
Rust says 17 training sessions are scheduled around the state starting next week.