IDAHO, USA — The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) is implementing new measures to fight against aquatic invasive species. Starting July 1 new laws go into effect, including requirements for removing drain plugs, mandatory inspection and decontamination for out of state watercraft and local watercraft inspection stations.
"Since Idaho's Legislature took action in 2008, our state has taken the forefront in combating aquatic invasive species," said Chanel Tewalt, ISDA Director. "Today, Idaho adds additional tools in our fight to protect agriculture, power generation, recreation and private property."
KTVB reached out to the department, and they said there are 46 invasive aquatic species in Idaho but at the moment the quagga mussel is the main focus.
"The introduction of quagga mussels poses a major threat to Idaho. This invasive species can quickly spread and clog pipes that deliver water for drinking, energy, agriculture, recreation, and a variety of other uses. These mussels can negatively affect fish populations and wildlife habitat. If left untreated, a quagga mussel infestation has the potential to cost Idaho hundreds of millions of dollars in actual and indirect costs. It could prompt increases in your taxes and bills," Public Information Officer Sydney Kennedy wrote in an email.
There are also a number of other species making the top of the list, such as the Asian clam, Zebra mussels, New Zealand mudsnails and aquatic plants Eurasian watermilfoil and Curlyleaf pondweed.
The new laws not only require out-of-state watercraft to be inspected, owners must also buy an invasive species sticker. All watercraft or conveyance users must also remove drain plug and drain before transporting,
The department lists watercraft or conveyance as being a boat, paddleboard, kayak, sailboat, inflatable watercraft, trailer and any other method of water transportation device.
People can get more information by clicking here, there is also a hotline people can call, 1-877-336-8676. To buy stickers, people can click here.
Watch more Local News:
See the latest news from around the Treasure Valley and the Gem State in our YouTube playlist:
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET NEWS FROM KTVB:
Download the KTVB News Mobile App
Apple iOS: Click here to download
Google Play: Click here to download
Watch news reports for FREE on YouTube: KTVB YouTube channel
Stream Live for FREE on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching 'KTVB'.
Stream Live for FREE on FIRE TV: Search ‘KTVB’ and click ‘Get’ to download.