Game & Fish intercepts zebra mussel-infected craft

CODY (WNE) — A watercraft with zebra mussels was intercepted by aquatic invasive species inspectors with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.

The high-risk watercraft was traveling from Oklahoma to Montana and stopped during a multi-state coordination effort to prevent the spread of invasive mussels in Wyoming and neighboring waterways.

The watercraft had been recently purchased near Lake Oologah, Okla. The body of water is known to be infested with zebra mussels. The boater removed the craft from the water 24 hours prior to transport.

Upon arrival at the AIS checkstation in Wyoming, G&F officials identified viable mussels attached to the hull of the craft. The watercraft was immediately flagged for quarantine, and the boat owner coordinated with G&F to complete transport to its final destination in Montana.

To ensure the vessel did not enter waterways prematurely, the boat owner worked with Wyoming and Montana officials to ensure a formal watercraft notice was issued to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. The craft was documented and physically sealed, and a notification tag was attached to the boat requiring it to undergo professional decontamination before it can be legally launched in any waterbody.

The incident highlights the importance of having watercraft inspected prior to entering the state and going out on waterways, and to remain vigilant year-round as this watercraft was being transported during the winter months. Invasive mussels are a catastrophic threat to Wyoming’s aquatic habitat. All watercraft entering Wyoming from March 1-Nov. 30 must be inspected prior to launching and inspected year-round if last used on an infested water in the last 30 days.

This story was published on April 1, 2026.