Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks officials remind private and commercial boaters that state law requires all motorists hauling watercraft to stop at inspection stations. Watercrafts include motorboats, sailboats, kayaks, canoes, rowboats, rafts, jet skis and even small kick boats popular among some anglers.
Always stop at AIS watercraft inspection stations for a brief interview and equipment check. Most inspections take fewer than five minutes, but failure to stop could lead to a $135 fine. Inspection stations aim to prevent the introduction and spread of unwanted aquatic invasive species.
The annual education and enforcement effort, which this year includes multiple chances to win prizes from an array of local sponsors, is to further curb the risk of aquatic invasive species from attaining a foothold in Montana waters.
Seventeen well-marked inspection stations will again be in operation May through September at key border crossings, along major highways, and on heavily used water bodies. Motorists who stop will have their equipment checked—and cleaned if needed—and get information on how to enter a raffle for prizes to be awarded throughout the boating season.
Remember to always inspect, clean, drain and dry boats, trailers and gear after each use.
For more on AIS, visit FWP's website at fwp.mt.gov, then click "Aquatic Invasive Species".
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