04/28/2026
As summer nears, more people are getting out to enjoy Nevada’s lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. Increased recreation also means a higher risk of spreading aquatic invasive species between waterbodies.
Aquatic invasive species such as quagga mussels, zebra mussels, New Zealand mudsnails, and invasive plants can easily hitch a ride on boats, trailers, and gear.
Once introduced, they can spread rapidly and are extremely difficult to remove. These species can clog water infrastructure, damage boats, reduce water quality, and disrupt the natural food web that native fish and wildlife depend on.
The good news is that preventing their spread is simple and effective.
Every time you leave a body of water, take a few extra minutes to:
✔ Clean mud, plants, and organisms from your equipment
✔ Drain all water from boats, motors, and gear
✔ Dry everything completely before entering another waterbody
These small steps play a critical role in protecting Nevada’s waters, fisheries, and recreation opportunities for the future.
If you operate a watercraft capable of holding water, remember that an AIS decal is required in Nevada. Decal fees help support inspection stations, monitoring programs, and education efforts statewide.
Learn more here: http://ndow.org/.../aquatic-invasive-species-prevention.../hitch a ride
As summer nears, more people are getting out to enjoy Nevada’s lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. Increased recreation also means a higher risk of spreading aquatic invasive species between waterbodies.
Aquatic invasive species such as quagga mussels, zebra mussels, New Zealand mudsnails, and invasive plants can easily hitchhike on boats, trailers, and gear.
Once introduced, they can spread rapidly and are extremely difficult to remove. These species can clog water infrastructure, damage boats, reduce water quality, and disrupt the natural food web that native fish and wildlife depend on.
The good news is that preventing their spread is simple and effective.
Every time you leave a body of water, take a few extra minutes to:
✔ Clean mud, plants, and organisms from your equipment
✔ Drain all water from boats, motors, and gear
✔ Dry everything completely before entering another waterbody
These small steps play a critical role in protecting Nevada’s waters, fisheries, and recreation opportunities for the future.
If you operate a watercraft capable of holding water, remember that an AIS decal is required in Nevada. Decal fees help support inspection stations, monitoring programs, and education efforts statewide.
Learn more here: ndow.org/get-outside/aquatic-invasive-species-prevention-program/
