The battle against invasive species in Colorado's waters is taking a step forward with the introduction of new gear and watercraft cleaning stations throughout the state, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) announced. These stations aim to provide boaters and anglers with the tools they need to help prevent the spread of harmful aquatic nuisances, such as mussels. Robert Walters, CPW's ANS program manager, underscored the importance of community cooperation, urging those involved in water-based recreation to use the stations responsibly.
In the previous year, CPW staff were kept busy with 463,710 inspections and the decontamination of 32,584 boats to guard against aquatic threats. To safeguard ecosystems and infrastructure, the CPW intercepted 110 boats carrying invasive mussels, and boaters are being reminded that if they are on the move with a motorized or trailer watercraft, they must stop for inspection at designated check stations.
While boats account for a large number of the aquatic nuisance species (ANS) entering Colorado, gear like waders and boots has also been identified as vectors for these invaders. Recognizing this, CPW has expanded its cleaning facilities around the state, as announced by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
