IDAHO, USA — The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) is implementing new measures to combat aquatic invasive species. New laws will take effect July 1, including drain plug removal requirements and mandatory inspections and decontamination for out-of-state watercraft and local watercraft inspection stations.

“Since Idaho's legislature took action in 2008, our state has been a leader in the fight against aquatic invasive species,” said Chanel Tewalt, ISDA director. “Today, Idaho has additional tools in our fight to protect agriculture, energy production, recreation and private property.”

KTVB reached out to the department and they said there are 46 invasive aquatic species in Idaho, but the current focus is on the quagga mussel.

“The introduction of quagga mussels poses a major threat to Idaho. This invasive species can spread rapidly and clog pipes that deliver water for drinking, energy, agriculture, recreation, and a variety of other uses. These mussels can negatively impact fish populations and wildlife habitat. If left untreated, a quagga mussel infestation can cost Idaho hundreds of millions of dollars in actual and indirect costs. It could result in higher taxes and bills,” spokesperson Sydney Kennedy wrote in an email.

In addition, numerous other species are at the top of the list, such as the Asian mussel, the zebra mussel, the New Zealand mud snail and the aquatic plants milfoil and curly pondweed.

In addition to requiring out-of-state watercraft to be inspected, the new laws require owners to purchase an invasive species sticker. All users of watercraft or transportation will also be required to remove and drain the drain plug before transportation.

The department defines watercraft or transportation as boats, paddleboards, kayaks, sailboats, inflatable watercraft, trailers and all other water transportation devices.

For more information, click here. There is also a hotline at 1-877-336-8676. To purchase stickers, click here.

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