AIS Prevention Top Priority for Department

As boating season begins in the Cowboy State, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department is reminding Sheridan area residents that aquatic invasive species prevention remains a top priority, with inspection stations now open and expanding hours in the coming weeks. 

While appearing on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Wyoming Game and Fish Sheridan Region Aquatic Invasive Species Specialist Reed Moore said aquatic invasive species, (AIS) including zebra and quagga mussels, pose a significant threat to local waterways, infrastructure and recreation if introduced. Reed said education and awareness are cornerstones to keeping Wyoming waters free from these invasive mussels. 

R. Moore

Wyoming State law requires all watercraft entering Wyoming between March 1 and Nov. 30 to be inspected before launching, including boats, kayaks and paddleboards.

In Sheridan, the local inspection station is currently open Thursdays through Sundays, with plans to move to daily operations as traffic increases. 

R. Moore

Moore also reminds boaters that AIS decals are required for most watercraft and that all vegetation must be removed and water drained before transport.

Moore said consistent compliance with inspections and the Clean, Drain and Dry protocol remains the best defense against invasive species.

To learn more on how to keep your watercraft AIS free, click here.