Whatcom Boat Inspection Data | 2024

Aquatic invasive species are non-native aquatic plants, animals, and pathogens that can cause economic loss, environmental damage, and harm to human health. They can easily spread to new waters by watercraft that are transported from one fresh waterbody to another. Once established, they can cause significant impacts to our environment, economy, and infrastructure.

Aquatic invasive species of particular concern are zebra and quagga mussels. These invasive mussels were first discovered in the Great Lakes in the late 1980s, and by 2007, had been transported west to Lake Mead in Arizona/Nevada. Since 2007, they have spread to waterways in several other western states, and watercraft contaminated with these mussels continue to be intercepted at our borders each year.

To prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species, the  Lake Whatcom Management Program  operates several aquatic invasive species check stations at Lake Whatcom and Lake Samish. Inspectors at these check stations inspect all watercraft entering these lakes to ensure that they are clean, drained, and dry and are not transporting aquatic invasive species. The following maps highlight some of the data collected by inspectors in 2024.

Zoom in and out and click on the locations on the map to learn more.

For more information visit:  Whatcom Boat Inspections 

We've witnessed a surge in Whatcom County residents who have recently purchased a new or used boat. Many of the used watercraft are coming from mussel infested waters. Our inspection staff decontaminated 4 boats in the 2024 season, 2 of which were purchased from mussel infested waters.

If you recently purchased a boat, call ahead at (360) 778-7975 to schedule your AIS inspection (and possible decontamination) and avoid delays at the launch. You can also visit  whatcomboatinspections.com  to get a permit online and learn more.

Thank you for helping protect our local waters from aquatic invasive species!