TYLER, Texas (KLTV) - As duck season approaches across Texas, state wildlife officials are reminding hunters that the threat of invasive aquatic species does not end when summer boating winds down.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officials are urging hunters to carefully inspect and clean their gear before traveling between water bodies.

Plants such as giant salvinia, along with zebra mussels, remain present year-round and can hitch rides on boats, trailers, decoys, and hunting waders.