The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency will open roadside stations for inspections and decontamination of boats and other watercraft at three different locations beginning Sunday, May 1.
Dennis Zabaglo, TRPA’s Aquatic Resources Manager, said all motorized watercraft must be checked for invasive aquatic species before they can launch into Tahoe, Fallen Leaf or Echo Lake. But he said those species such as quagga mussels, mudsnails and hydrilla can also hitch a ride on non-motorized equipment including kayaks, paddleboards and inflatables including life jackets.
He said the inspection program is critical to preventing the spread of those invasive species that destroy fish habitat, ruin boat engines and negatively impact water quality.
The inspection stations are located in Meyers at the junction of U.S. 50 and Highway 89, Spooner Summit at U.S. 50 and SR 28 and Alpine Meadows at Highway 89 north of Tahoe City.
Nicole Cartwright, coordinator of the invasive species program for the Tahoe Resource Conservation District, said boaters are encouraged to clean, drain and dry their boats before arriving at inspection stations.
The fees are the same as last year. The Tahoe In & Out inspection ranges from $35 for personal watercraft and vessels under 17 feet to $121 for boats more than 39 feet long. The Tahoe Only sticker is $30.
Decontamination costs $35 with an added $10 to decontaminate ballast tanks.
She said there are no fees to inspect non-motorized craft such as kayaks and paddleboards.
