News Release

Mussel-Free Self-Certification Forms Mandatory at Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area Beginning May 1st

Date: April 20, 2020
Contact: Denise Bausch, 509-754-7830

In an on-going effort to prevent the introduction of aquatic invasive species, the National Park Service (NPS) at Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area will require that all boaters complete the aquatic invasive species (AIS) quagga/zebra mussel-free self-certification form beginning May 1, 2020. This is the next progression of the AIS prevention program introduced in early 2018.

Download the self-certification form (also available at each boat launch). After following the flowchart and completing the form, place it in the windshield of your launch vehicle where it can be easily seen. If you only boat within Washington State, boaters will only need to complete the form once per season. If you launch your boat outside of Washington State, you will need to complete the form before you launch at Lake Roosevelt again. Watercraft coming from outside of Washington should be cleaned, drained, and fully dried (dry time may be up to 30 days), or have valid proof of inspection within the last 30 days, before launching in Lake Roosevelt. It is important to remove all dirt, plants and water from boats, trailers, and other water gear prior to launching every time. 

Aquatic invasive species are easily transported between bodies of water by boats, inflatable kayaks and float toys, fishing waders and tubes, trailers, and any other water gear. Currently, freshwater lakes in Washington, Oregon and Idaho are free of invasive mussels. An invasive mussel species native to Ukraine and Russia, quagga/zebra mussels quickly cover most hard surfaces and can clog boat motor intake systems, water intake structures, recreational beaches, agricultural irrigation systems and hydroelectric power plant operations. These small mussels can survive out of the water for up to two weeks and the microscopic larvae can be transported in bilges, ballast water, live wells or other equipment that holds water. Researchers within the Pacific Northwest Economic Region estimate that the economic impact of a mussel infestation would cost the Pacific Northwest $500 million annually.

Please help us prevent the introduction of quagga and zebra mussels by making sure that you clean, drain, and dry all your water gear before launching at Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area.