Invasive Species Inspections Successful

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is terming the third boating season following passage of Aquatic Invasive Species legislation in 2010 a major success based on the numbers of boats inspected, AIS decal sales, and overall cooperation from boaters.  From May 17th through September 9th, about 38,659 watercraft inspections were conducted at 36 different waters throughout Wyoming including a check station just north of the Town of Jackson.  Of those watercraft inspected, the department says 35% were inspected on more than one occasion during the season and 25% were registered outside Wyoming. According to Game and Fish reports, the destination where by far the most inspections were conducted was Jackson Lake where more than 8500 such inspections were made. Purchase of the required AIS decal also went well with more than 39,000 decals issued, representing some 86 percent of the boats registered in Wyoming.  Department officials say the decal program has raised $484,920 this year, which is used to fund outreach and education efforts, watercraft inspections, and monitoring for AIS in Wyoming waters.