JACKSON, Wyo. — As marinas close and boating season in Wyoming winds down, Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s (WGFD) AIS check stations will implement reduced hours while some stations will close for the season.

Check stations throughout the state will start to close or reduce their hours beginning this month. However, it is a requirement that any watercraft transported into Wyoming from March 1 through Nov. 30 must undergo a mandatory inspection by an authorized inspector prior to launching.

In Jackson, certified inspection locations can be found at Teton County Weed and Pest, the Moose AIS Check Station and the Moran AIS Check Station. AIS watercraft inspections are also available at the WGFD’s Jackson Regional Office and the Border Check Station at Alpine US 89 Port of Entry.

The Moran and Moose AIS Check Stations closed yesterday, Sept. 12. The Alpine US 89 Port of Entry will close on Oct. 2.

“Boaters who need to get their watercraft inspected between now and the end of November can stop by a Game and Fish office or any private certified inspector,” said Josh Leonard, Game and Fish AIS coordinator. “Any watercraft that has been in a water infested with zebra/quagga mussels within the last 30 days is required to undergo a mandatory inspection by an authorized inspector prior to launching during all months of the year.”

Boaters planning trips can check inspection hours on their routes. Game and Fish also has a listing of private inspectors who may operate outside of normal hours or by appointment.

Keeping aquatic invasive species from spreading to and within Wyoming is a priority for Game and Fish. For more information on what all water users can do to prevent the spread of AIS and the state requirements for boaters, visit the AIS webpage.

She's a lover of alliteration, easy-to-follow recipes and board games when everyone knows the rules. Her favorite aspect about living in the Tetons is the collective admiration that Wyomingites share for the land and the life that it sustains.