As Utah’s waters beckon boaters with the arrival of warmer weather, enthusiasts are reminded of essential requirements aimed at curbing the spread of aquatic invasive species.

Launching any watercraft in Utah mandates compliance with an annual mussel-aware boater course, irrespective of residency status. This requirement extends to individuals operating paddleboards, kayaks, and other non-motorized vessels.

Moreover, those intending to launch motorized boats must remit an annual aquatic invasive species program vessel enrollment fee, distinct from boater registration charges. Each fee entails separate decals.

Boater registration payments are facilitated through the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles, while aquatic invasive species fees can be settled online. Residents incur a $20 fee per watercraft, while non-residents face a $25 charge. Completion of the annual mussel-aware boater course precedes fee payment, after which a current-year boat decal is dispatched.

Lt. Bruce Johnson of the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources’ Aquatic Invasive Species underscores the crucial role of these funds in preventing the spread of quagga mussels from Lake Powell to other water bodies. Investments are directed towards installing efficient dip tanks statewide for boat decontamination and funding staff for inspection and decontamination services.

All watercraft departing Lake Powell–currently the sole Utah waterbody with confirmed quagga mussels–are subject to exit inspections during station hours. Following inspection, watercraft necessitate professional decontamination before launching elsewhere. Failure to decontaminate mandates adherence to recommended cleaning, draining, and dry time guidelines.

Utah prescribes varying dry times post-boating at Lake Powell: seven days in summer, 18 days in fall and spring, and 30 days in winter. However, wakeboard boats are categorically subjected to a 30-day dry period, unless certified for decontamination.

Over 40 inspection stations, positioned at launch ramps and along highways statewide, facilitate compliance. Boaters are reminded to remove drain plugs and sea strainers during watercraft transport.

Gratitude is extended to conscientious boaters committed to thwarting the spread of quagga mussels and other invasive species, acknowledges Johnson.

Quagga mussels pose multifaceted threats, from obstructing water lines to depleting plankton, damaging engines, and causing foul odors and injuries. Detailed prevention measures are available on the STD of the Sea website.

As boaters gear up for summer escapades, adherence to mandatory courses and fees stands as a collective endeavor to preserve Utah’s pristine waters.

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