Reacting to the discovery of invasive zebra mussels in the Black Hills, plans have been finalized for the operation of watercraft check stations in northeast Wyoming. 

Wyoming Game and Fish Department officials have been working to mitigate the threat of the destructive mussel, which could cause significant damage to Wyoming waterways. Last July, South Dakota documented the infestation at Pactola Reservoir in the Black Hills — 30 miles from the Wyoming border.

This is the closest location to Wyoming where this species has been found, significantly increasing the risk to Wyoming’s waters, according to a press release by the department last week. If the destructive species gets a foothold, zebra mussels could devastate infrastructure, drinking water, irrigation systems, and hydroelectric and industrial cooling systems.

Check stations are operated annually in Wyoming to inspect watercraft for aquatic invasive species, said Reed Moore, Game and Fish aquatic invasive species specialist in the Sheridan region.

“In response to this heightened threat, last fall we implemented temporary boat ramp closures and other restrictions at Keyhole, LAK and Glendo reservoirs,” Moore said, adding, “The threat of an introduction of zebra mussels in Wyoming, or other damaging aquatic invasive species, will continue to remain high so over the past several months we developed plans to expand check stations and staffing along our state’s eastern border.”

The changes will increase the department’s ability to efficiently inspect watercraft entering Wyoming, while also making it easier for watercraft owners who only operate their watercraft in-state. 

There are no boat ramp restrictions this year at Keyhole or Glendo reservoirs. Instead, existing check stations in the towns of Beulah and Torrington, as well as Glendo and Keyhole reservoirs will operate with increased staffing and hours. Two new check stations will open at Newcastle and Manville, giving officials “additional opportunities for watercraft owners to comply with inspection requirements and better protect Wyoming waters,” the release stated. 

Pactola Reservoir is now considered infested with zebra mussels, according to South Dakota officials. However, the state’s response to the species lacks commitment, according to Wyoming officials.

“[South Dakota’s] response, in our opinion, has been pretty hands off,” said Alan Osterland, Game and Fish chief of fisheries, as he spoke at a commission meeting in September.

Check stations will begin opening in March. Open stations will be prominently marked with road signs. All watercraft traveling into Wyoming from March 1-Nov. 30 must be inspected prior to launching in Wyoming. People also must stop at any open AIS check station they pass with their watercraft while traveling to or from their boating destination.

If a watercraft inspection outside of open check station hours is needed, check the Game and Fish website for other inspection options or call a Game and Fish regional office during regular business hours to make an appointment.

“We appreciate the patience and understanding of watercraft owners during the past few months as we responded to the unfortunate discovery of zebra mussels in Pactola Reservoir,” said Eric Hansen, Game and Fish aquatic invasive species specialist who supervises the Glendo check station. “We expect the expanded efforts at these eastern locations will increase protection for our Wyoming waters from AIS and simplify the inspection process for boaters coming into Wyoming.”