Boat transporters can call a new aquatic invasive species (AIS) hotline when planning to haul vessels across state lines to prevent the spread of invasive species and to facilitate the watercraft inspection process. Transporters headed for Lake Tahoe can be connected to Tahoe Resource Conservation District boat inspectors to expedite the watercraft inspection, and if needed, decontamination.
The interstate “Call Before You Haul” program is a partnership through Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission to help reduce the ongoing spread of AIS attributed to the movement of watercraft between water bodies. Invasive species can be carried in bilge water, live wells and bait buckets, as well as on boat and motor exteriors and trailers. Every time a boat is transported overland after use in an infested waterway, it can transfer AIS to non-infested waterways.
Calling the toll-free number to arrange watercraft inspections can prevent costly delays at inspection stations and ensure transporters are not violating state, federal or regional laws. | tahoeboatinspections.com, (844) 311-4873
