With boating season underway, Colorado Parks and Wildlife is reminding all boaters that  boat inspections for aquatic nuisance species are mandatory at most boatable waters in the state, including state parks and state wildlife areas.  Hand-launched, non-motorized, boats such as canoes or kayaks are allowed on the water and are not subject to inspection.

“Park County has some of the best fishing in the state,” said Reid DeWalt, area wildlife manager for Colorado Parks and Wildlife. “We are pleased that so many anglers and boaters realize the value in protecting our water and our fishing opportunities by complying with inspections.”

Zebra and quagga mussels are a serious threat to Colorado waters. Invasive species such as the zebra mussel negatively influence the food chain for native fish. The mussels reproduce prolifically, consume phytoplankton and devastate fisheries. The small mollusks also grow on engines and boats, and can clog water pipes and dam mechanisms.

Boat owners are urged to clean, drain, and dry their boats thoroughly before they launch for the first time this season. After that, owners should do so every time they leave the water.

Boat inspections begin on May 3 at the following waters:

Antero Reservoir
The reservoir will open to boating on May 3 at the North and South boat ramps.  Both ramps are open from one half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset.  The North Ramp is open seven days a week while the South Ramp is only open Friday through Monday and is closed Tuesday through Thursday.  Both ramps close for the season on Oct. 31.  Overnight beaching of boats is prohibited.

Tarryall Reservoir State Wildlife Area (Park County)
Quagga mussel veligers have been found in Tarryall Reservoir and therefore it is considered a positive water body.  An inspection of all trailered watercraft is mandatory both entering and exiting Tarryall Reservoir.

The boat ramps open on May 3 at the north boat ramp Thursdays through Mondays and will continue till Oct. 29.  The reservoir is open from one half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset.  Tarryall is closed to trailered motorized watercraft Tuesday and Wednesday.  Overnight beaching of boats is prohibited.

Inspection stations are already in operation at:

Eleven Mile Reservoir State Park (Park County)
New Zealand mudsnails and Eurasian watermilfoil, two invasive species, are present in Eleven Mile Reservoir.  An inspection of all trailered watercraft is mandatory both entering and exiting.