CHEYENNE, Wyo. — Boating season in Wyoming is winding down and so are the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) aquatic invasive species (AIS) check stations, but inspections for zebra/quagga mussels are still mandatory.
Watercraft transported into Wyoming from March 1 to Nov. 30 must undergo an inspection by an authorized inspector prior to launching.
In late September, a boat carrying live, invasive zebra mussels was intercepted in northeast Wyoming by the WGFD. This was the first watercraft with verified live mussels discovered at a Wyoming check station this year, according to the WGFD.
“With the threat of zebra mussels greater than ever before to Wyoming, we are relying on boaters more than ever to do the right thing and get your boats inspected,” WGFD AIS Coordinator Josh Leonard said in an announcement by the agency.
Check stations throughout the state will start to close or reduce hours. Teton County boaters in need of an inspection can stop by the WGFD Jackson Regional Office located on 420 N. Cache Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments can also made with Teton County Weed and Pest by calling 307-733-8419.
“Boaters who need to get their watercraft inspected between now and the end of November can stop by a Game and Fish office or contact any private, certified inspector,” Leonard said. “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.”
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.
