Boaters who have their watercraft inspected for aquatic invasive species (AIS) will be eligible to win prizes through the 2017 Wyoming AIS Boater Appreciation Raffle. The raffle was established to recognize the important role boaters play in maintaining the ecological and recreational qualities of Wyoming waters through boat inspections.

Raffle prizes are a kayak package that includes two Emotion Guster Kayaks, paddles, lifejackets, ratchet straps and a Yeti Tundra 65 Cooler; a two-person guided trout or walleye fishing trip; Garmin Striker 5cv Fish Finder; Coolest Cooler and a Creek Company Odc 420 Ultralight Float Tube. Prizes are provided by Sportsmen’s Warehouse, Two Dogs Guide Service, Citimarine, Marine Products and the West Laramie Fly Store.

Boaters will be provided a raffle entry each time their boat is inspected at a Wyoming Game and Fish Department check station or office.  Prize winners will be randomly selected on December 1.
“Invasive species are one of the most serious threats to our fisheries and quality boating experiences in Wyoming. We have some of the best fisheries in the nation and boaters are the front line of defense in keeping invasive species out of Wyoming. We are happy to team up with Game and Fish to recognize boater’s contributions” says Paul LaCaze manager, of Cheyenne Sportsmen’s Warehouse.  

Zebra and quagga mussels represent two species of great concern. Both species remove substantial amounts of food and nutrients from the water, competing with fish, and rapidly colonize hard surfaces. These mussels become so abundant they clog pipes and screens, reducing pumping capacity for power plants, water treatment facilities and irrigation systems, which can result in substantial financial loss. 

“Once established, mussel removal is nearly impossible and treatment options are limited.  The most effective conservation measure is prevention,” said Beth Bear, Game and Fish aquatic invasive species coordinator  

Zebra and quagga mussels have been detected in neighboring states including Nebraska, South Dakota, Utah, and most recently Montana.

Any watercraft transported into Wyoming from March 1 through November 30 are required to undergo a mandatory inspection prior to launching. Any watercraft that has been in waters infested with zebra or quagga mussels during the previous 30 days must be inspected prior to launching year round. Boaters may get inspected at check stations at ports of entry, border locations, boat ramps and Game and Fish offices, and must stop at any inspection location they pass. In addition, almost all watercraft are required to have an AIS decal prior to launching.  AIS decals can be purchased at license agents, online, or at Game and Fish regional offices.  

“Ensuring the high quality of fishing and recreation in Wyoming is dependent upon cooperation,” said Bear. “The AIS Boater Appreciation Raffle is an excellent example of teamwork between boaters, agencies and outdoor retailers to address a critical resource issue.”

For more information about aquatic invasive species visit Wyoming AIS Boater Appreciation Raffle.