Watercraft inspection stations are Montana’s first line of defense against the introduction of aquatic invasive species (AIS). Since invasive mussel larvae were detected in 2016, Montana’s watercraft inspections have more than doubled to 109,000 in 2018.

Inspection stations are operated by Montana FWP and these partners organizations: Blackfeet Nation, Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes, Garfield Conservation District, Missoula County Weed District, National Park Service, and Whitefish Lake Institute.

See the 2018 Inspection Summary.

Watercraft Inspection at Canyon Ferry

Boat inspectors intercepted 16 out-of-state boats with mussels attached. Most of these boats were passing through Montana to their final destination. Eight of the boats had just been purchased as used boats and were destined for their new home!

In an effort to assess the efficacy and success of Montana’s efforts to prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS), the Upper Columbia Conservation Commission (UC3) is conducting an evaluation of the 2018 Montana Aquatic Invasive Species Program. Take this brief survey to share your experience and thoughts on the AIS Program during the 2018 season. The survey should take approximately 15 minutes to complete. Your feedback will provide valuable information that can enhance the AIS Program to best protect Montana’s water resources. This is a public survey, so you can share the link with others. The survey closes on January 18th. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QW7JCXV