Numerous Boats Infested With Invasive Mussels In Montana

Over the years, invasive muscles have become a growing and concerning problem in Montana waterways.

It may seem like a hassle or a pain to clean, drain, and dry your watercraft after each usage, but without this preventative measure, these invasive muscles run rampant across the treasure state.

Watercraft Inspections In Montana

So far this year, Montana fish, wildlife, and parts inspection stations have checked a staggering 10,000 watercraft.

Of those, 10,000 watercraft were found to have invasive muscles attached.

That may not seem like a lot, but when you see how fast these muscles spread, it becomes an issue incredibly quickly.

Watercraft Rules Montana

Anyone hauling or transporting a watercraft is required to stop at any open inspection station in Montana.

Watercraft that fit this category are motorized and motorized boats, paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, rafts, and pack rafts.

If you've been out of state and returning them to Montana, you must have your watercraft inspected before putting it back into the water here in the Treasure State.

As mentioned before, your watercraft needs to be drained and dried before transporting.

Aquatic Invasive Species

Aquatic and invasive species are plants, animals, or even pathogens that are not native to Montana and can significantly harm the environment and our economy.

Click Here To Learn More!

Montana fish, wildlife and parks Aquatic Invasive Species Bureau at 406-444-2440.

Read Next: Be A Responsible Montana Boater With These Simple Tips