Why do boaters need an Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Permit
Aquatic invasive species seriously damage waterbodies. Species like the quagga mussel and Eurasian watermilfoil “hitchhike” from one body of water to the next, primarily on boats. Revenues from permits will fund a new statewide prevention program to help protect our waters.
Quagga and zebra mussels can quickly encrust surfaces and cause severe economic and environmental harm. If they spread to the Pacific Northwest, the threats to hydropower, irrigated agriculture, drinking water, recreation and salmon recovery will be immeasurable. The invasive mussels were first found in the West in 2007. Quagga and zebra mussels have spread throughout the lower Colorado River system and major water distribution systems. They now infest waterbodies in NEVADA, CALIFORNIA, ARIZONA, COLORADO, TEXAS and UTAH.