Manager’s Message – July 2024

Stop the Spread of Invasive Mussels

Summer is finally here! It is my favorite season and the time to get out on the lake to fish, water ski, or just enjoy a leisurely boat ride in the sun. If you take your boat out of the state, be careful before returning. Invasive quagga and zebra mussels are looking to hitchhike a ride to our pristine Idaho and Montana waterways.

These invasive mussels wreak havoc wherever they call home. They deplete the nutrients in the water and upset the ecosystem. They also colonize hulls of boats, recreational equipment, irrigation equipment, and hydroelectric power plant equipment. Once they move in, they are often a permanent house guest.

Unfortunately, last year Idaho detected its first invasive mussel in the Snake River. Idaho officials jumped into action and treated the river to kill the mussels. We hope tests later this year confirm they have been eradicated.

How do you go about keeping those pesky creatures from moving in? Clean. Drain. Dry. Clean any visible mud, plants, or animals from your boat. Drain all water from the motor, bilge, live well, and other water-containing devices. Dry all areas of your boat and equipment.

To protect our waterways, the state has set up a watercraft inspection station program focused on inspecting boats from affected states as they come across the state line. Inspections are free, but the cost of mussels is not. According to the Idaho Department of Agriculture, the estimated cost to Idaho would be $100 million annually if attempts fail to prevent an infestation. In 2024, inspection stations in Idaho have already intercepted 12 boats carrying invasive mussels.

If you are commercially hauling watercraft to Washington, Oregon, Idaho, or Montana, you need to Call Before You Haul, (844) 311-4873, to provide your hauling information and avoid costly delivery delays. This also ensures you are not violating state or federal laws pertaining to the unlawful transport of invasive species.

I hope you are enjoying your summer in the beautiful Inland Northwest. And remember: Clean. Drain. Dry.

Sincerely,
Annie Terracciano
General Manager