Some AIS inspection stations remain open; Montana waters remain invasive-mussel-free
AIS season isn't over quite yet. Anglers and waterfowl hunters with watercraft must continue to stop at all aquatic invasive species watercraft inspection stations they encounter. While some inspection stations close after Labor Day, others continue operating through October in high-risk corridors. Six of seventeen inspection stations are still operating.
"We are still holding the line against aquatic invasive species in Montana," said aquatic invasive species bureau chief Tom Woolf.
So far this year, more than 110,000 watercraft have been inspected. Thirty of those were carrying mussels, and more than 600 were carrying weeds.
According to Woolf, that's about 3,000 fewer boats than last year, and six fewer mussel-fouled boats.
No new AIS populations have been detected so far this season, except for the freshwater jellyfish in Canyon Ferry Reservoir.
Through the fall, the public can continue to help FWP remain invasive mussel.
"It's a great time of year to search for AIS when water levels are low," Woolf said.
If you find something suspicious, take a good photo, grab a specimen and contact FWP at 406-444-2440 or online here.
"Help protect our waters by remembering to Clean, Drain and Dry your boat and gear every time you leave the water," Woolf said.