GNP: Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention Program
WEST GLACIER, MONT. – Glacier National Park continues its boat inspection and permit program this summer as part of an ongoing aquatic invasive species (AIS) prevention program.
Westward expansion of zebra and quagga mussels, and other aquatic invasive species transported mainly on recreational watercraft, is driving regional water resource managers to adjust existing AIS prevention strategies. Mussel infestations are increasing across the country, and present greater threats to park waters as more boats testing positive for mussels are intercepted in the northwest each year.
Glacier National Park visitors can launch most motorized and trailered watercraft in the park, however, a thorough boat inspection is required upon every entry to the park. Hand-propelled watercraft (canoes, kayaks, rowboats, rafts, catarafts) launched within the park are required to obtain an AIS self-certification permit. The permit is free, completed by the boater, and is required upon each entry to the park. The permit must remain with boaters while they are floating. It is available at all park visitor centers, backcountry permit offices, park headquarters, and at maintained boat launches. Boaters can also download the permit before they come to the park from Glacier’s website at http://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/boating.htm. As always, park managers encourage all boaters to thoroughly clean, drain, and dry their watercraft and/or fishing equipment before coming to the park.
Park managers realize that recreational boaters will face added time and inconvenience while recreating in Glacier National Park. However, the consequences of AIS becoming established in park waters at the headwaters for the Columbia, Missouri and Hudson Bay watersheds are dire for aquatic ecosystems, recreational opportunities, and economic concerns downstream. Park officials urge all boaters to CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY their boats and boating equipment after every outing.