Zebra/Quagga Mussels
With the arrival of this Invasive Nuisance Species the State of Colorado has been implementing inspections of watercraft before launching of vessel in bodies of water. We will inspect boats for launch into Dillon Reservoir during our operating hours 9am-5pm or 7pm during peak season. These hours are subject to change and weather dependant. After hours the launch ramp is locked for the evening. The mandatory inspection is free of charge as is our launch ramp. We will endeavor to make the inspection process as quick and easy as possible. Please do your part in arriving at the Frisco Bay Marina with a CLEAN, DRAINED, and DRY boat. For more information call 970 668-4334.
Boat Inspections
All water craft are potential vectors for spreading aquatic nuisance species. Many kinds of aquatic pests, including both plants and animals, are easily carried by trailered boats. Zebra/Quagga mussels are especially prone to this kind of transport due to their ability to attach to hard objects. Zebra/Quagga mussels create a mass of sticky threads (called a bysus) that they use to glue themselves to practically any hard surface: boat hulls, anchor chains, motors, wheel wells, rocks, wood, crayfish, and native bivalves for example. If you see zebra/quagga mussels in the wild, you will often find them attached in bunches or clusters, but they may not appear this way on your boat. In fact, it is possible that you may not see young zebra/quagga mussels with your naked eye. You should, however, be able to feel them by running your hand along the hull of your boat. A rough texture is a clue that zebra/quagga mussels may be attached to your boat. These must be removed with a power sprayer of hot water (140 degrees) before launching your boat in other waters. Decontamination station available on site.
What to Check?
Checking obvious places may not be enough. Zebra/Quagga mussels and other Aquatic Nuisance Species can hide anywhere on your boat or trailer. Thus, a thorough inspection after every outing is necessary, especially if you transport your boat to more than one water body.
If your boat or trailer harbors Aquatic Nuisance Species such as the Zebra/Quagga mussel, you need to know this BEFORE they have been spread to new water bodies. Please help us protect the areas which have not yet been infested. Check your boat and trailer every time, before you transport your boat.
