Threats and prevention efforts in Utah

HOW TO DECONTAMINATE YOUR BOAT

Decontamination is the only way to stop the spread of these horrible mussels. It does not harm your boat. It can actually prevent damage on your boat by removing mussels that would clog pumps and hoses. There are two ways to decontaminate your boat after pulling it out of the water:

	Clean mud, plants, animals or other debris from your boat and equipment.
	Drain the ballast tanks, bilge, livewells and motor.
	Dry (7 days summer, 18 days spring/fall and 30 days in the winter) or freeze (3 days).
	Professional decontamination is an alternative method (generally a free service) available at many Utah waters. Certified personnel will wash your trailer and boat inside and out—flushing your ballast tanks, bilge, livewells and motor with high-pressure, scalding (140° F) water. This method is effective and does not harm your boat.

No matter which decontamination method you prefer, you should make a habit of completing the decontamination process after every boating trip. Your efforts will also help limit the spread of whirling disease.

MUSSEL-FREE CERTIFICATION

When you visit a Utah lake or reservoir, be prepared to complete a decontamination certification form. The form requests information about your recent boating trips and decontamination efforts.

Your answers will help law enforcement personnel determine whether your boat needs to be professionally decontaminated. If you are asked to decontaminate your boat, please cooperate with onsite personnel and do your part to keep Utah's waters free of quagga and zebra mussels.

You can download a copy of the decontamination certification form here.