Boating

STATE OF COLORADO PLANS MANDATORY BOAT INSPECTIONS

Wed, 13 May 2009 20:37:26 GMT

Kansas boaters traveling to Colorado will be checked for aquatic nuisance species

Kansas boaters traveling to Colorado should anticipate being inspected this year as new regulations designed to prevent the spread of zebra and quagga mussels take effect for the 2009 boating season, the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW) reports. These regulations, drafted by Colorado State Parks in collaboration with the DOW and the boating community, are integral to the statewide effort to prevent the further spread of zebra/quagga mussels and other aquatic nuisance species (ANS) in Colorado's lakes and reservoirs.

All nonresident boats and Colorado boats that go out-of-state and return to Colorado must pass a state-certified inspection for ANS prior to launching in any Colorado lake, reservoir, or waterway. In addition, boats that have launched on any of the Colorado lakes or reservoirs where mussels have been detected are required to pass an inspection before launching at a new location. Boaters who have successfully passed a state-certified inspection will receive a green seal and receipt. Boaters must have both the seal and receipt in their possession before they may launch at a new location.

The Division of Wildlife, Colorado State Parks, county and municipal reservoirs, and a variety of private marine dealers and marinas offer state-certified inspection and decontamination services throughout the state. All DOW and state parks inspection sites are free-of-charge. Privately-operated inspection and decontamination services are fee-based, and prices may vary among providers.

In addition to fixed inspections sites, the DOW will implement "Roving Patrols." The roving units will move to a different location daily, offering inspection and decontamination services (if necessary) and ensuring that boaters are complying with the new regulations. The new regulations limit inspections to trailered watercraft.

Hand-launched crafts -- including kayaks, rafts, canoes, and belly boats -- are not considered high risk for spreading ANS and may launch without an inspection.

The Colorado regulations fall in line with recommendations issued to Kansas boaters by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. According to the DOW, all boaters should remember the following steps to ensure they are not spreading mussels or other ANS to clean waters:

clean the hull of the vessel;
drain the water from the vessel, live well and the lower unit of the engine;
dry the vessel, fishing gear and other equipment;
inspect all exposed surfaces; and
remove all plant and animal material.

More detailed procedures for cleaning boats and ensuring that ANS are not spread may be found on the KDWP website.

Colorado law prohibits the possession or transport of any ANS in Colorado. Wildlife officers, parks officials, and other qualified peace officers may stop, inspect, decontaminate, and detain watercraft upon a “reasonable belief” that mussels or other ANS are present.

To view a comprehensive list of Colorado-certified watercraft inspection sites, visit the Colorado Division of Wildlife’s website.

-30-

ZEBRA MUSSEL INFESTATIONS THREATEN DOWNSTREAM WATERS

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 21:22:30 GMT

"Clean, drain, dry" keys to prevention; online video demonstrates prevention techniques

Last summer, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Marion Reservoir. While the implications of this discovery are bad news for Marion, anglers and boaters need to be aware that the threat is not isolated to this lake.

Water from Marion Reservoir spills into the Cottonwood River, which in turn flows eastward toward John Redmond Reservoir, southeast of Emporia. From John Redmond, water is pumped into Coffey County Lake. Thus, zebra mussels from Marion Reservoir, about 50 miles north of Wichita in central Kansas, could threaten waters throughout the entire Neosho River Basin in southeast Kansas.

In addition to Marion, zebra mussels have spread to five other Kansas lakes (Lake Afton, Winfield City Lake, and Cheney, El Dorado, and Perry reservoirs), with John Redmond Reservoir and Coffey County Lake pending further tests. Other than downstream movement, much of this spread is due to careless human activity.

“Understanding the connection of river systems in Kansas clearly illustrates the danger of infesting just one body of water in the state with zebra mussels," says Jason Goeckler, aquatic nuisance species specialist for KDWP. "It's extremely frustrating because the spread of mussels can be prevented. Zebra mussels spread to lakes compounds the risk of downstream movement. All it takes is one irresponsible lake user to transport mussels from an infested lake to another water body. This occurrence is especially troubling because of the threat to the Cottonwood River, the Neosho River, and their tributaries, as well as all the people who use this river for water supply."

Goeckler emphasizes that it is "absolutely critical" that all boaters and anglers take necessary precautions to contain any future infestation of zebra mussels. His mantra for prevention involves three simple steps -- "clean, drain, and dry."

The following are steps to avoid transporting mussels from infested lakes to other waters:

never move fish or water from one body of water to another;
empty bait buckets on dry land, not into lakes;
inspect boats, trailers, skis, anchors, and all other equipment and remove any visible organisms and vegetation; and
wash equipment and boat with hot (140-degree) water, a 10 percent chlorine-and-water solution, or dry for at least five days to remove or kill species that are not visible.

The potential impact of zebra mussels on fisheries can be profound. Zebra mussels eat by filtering microscopic food from the water. Young fish and native mussels rely on this same microscopic food to survive.

Economic impacts are as grim as ecosystem impacts. Due to zebra mussels in intake/discharge pipes, municipalities, utilities, and industries have incurred significant costs associated with monitoring, cleaning, and controlling infestations. According to a recent economic impact study, nationwide expenditures to control zebra mussels in water intake pipes, water filtration equipment, and electric generating plants are estimated at $1 billion per year. Power generation alone expends $145 million per year. These costs are usually passed along to customers.

What’s more, zebra mussels also have very sharp shells that can cut the unprotected skin of people and animals. Federal legislation has been passed to help prevent the spread of zebra mussels. If an individual is caught transporting live zebra mussels into Kansas, they may face up to six months in jail and fines up to $5,000.

KDWP photographer Mike Blair has recorded a two-minute instructional video to demonstrate the steps required to prevent further aquatic nuisance species (ANS) spread. The video shows just how easy it is for boaters to follow the three simple steps -- "clean, drain, dry" -- that only take about five minutes. More detailed information on stopping the spread of zebra mussels is also included.

To view the video, go to KDWP TV, then click on "Checking for Zebra Mussels." For more information on aquatic nuisance species, phone Goeckler at 620-342-0658 or email jasong@wp.state.ks.us.

-30-

WILDLIFE

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 20:37:45 GMT

Video demonstrates how boaters can help stop spread of aquatic nuisance species

Zebra mussels have spread to six Kansas lakes (Lake Afton, Winfield City Lake, and Cheney, El Dorado, Marion, and Perry reservoirs), with John Redmond Reservoir and Coffey County Lake pending further tests. But as the boating season comes to a close, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) staff emphasize how easy and necessary it is for all lake users to clean, drain, and dry their recreational equipment before moving from one lake to another.

Other than downstream movement, zebra mussels are spread only by humans, and as more people visit infested lakes, the likelihood of further spread increases. Following a few simple steps can help stop this spread, and a new KDWP online video clip shows the viewer how.

KDWP photographer Mike Blair has recently recorded a two-minute instructional video to demonstrate the steps required to prevent further aquatic nuisance species (ANS) spread. The video shows just how easy it is for boaters to follow three simple steps -- clean, drain, and dry -- that only take about five minutes. More detailed information on stopping the spread of zebra mussels is also included.

The video is available by clicking on "Checking For Zebra Mussels" at the KDWP TV website. For more information on aquatic nuisance species, phone Jason Goeckler at 620-342-0658 or email jasong@wp.state.ks.us.

-30-

ZEBRA MUSSELS FOUND AT MARION RESERVOIR

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:53:06 GMT

Boater, angler precautions critical to contain further spread

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Marion Reservoir. After an angler reported finding a single zebra mussel in the Cottonwood Point area of the reservoir, KDWP biologist Jason Goeckler investigated immediately, and found two more juvenile mussels, indicating that reproduction of mussels has occurred at Marion.

“This is extremely frustrating because the spread of mussels can be prevented,” said Goeckler, aquatic nuisance species specialist for KDWP. “Other than downstream movement, zebra mussels can only be spread by human movement. All it takes is one irresponsible lake user to transport mussels from an infested lake to another water body. This occurrence is especially troubling because it means zebra mussels are now present in the Cottonwood River, a tributary of the Neosho River, where it had not been documented before.

“It is absolutely critical that all boaters and anglers take necessary precautions to contain any future infestation of zebra mussels,” Goeckler said.

Three simple steps – clean, drain, and dry -- can help prevent the spread of mussels. Anglers and boaters must take these precautions to avoid transporting mussels from infested lakes to other waters:

never move fish or water from one body of water to another;
empty bait buckets on dry land, not into lakes;
inspect boats, trailers, skis, anchors, and all other equipment and remove any visible organisms and vegetation; and
wash equipment with hot (140-degree) water, a 10 percent chlorine-and-water solution, or dry for at least five days to remove or kill species that are not visible.

Zebra mussel larvae are free-floating and microscopic, which enables aquatic users to unknowingly transport them between water bodies. Since they were first documented in El Dorado Reservoir in 2003, zebra mussels have spread to four other Kansas lakes, including Winfield City Lake, Cheney Reservoir, Perry Reservoir, and now Marion Reservoir.

A highly opportunistic mollusk, the zebra mussel reproduces rapidly. Once introduced, new populations can expand quickly and cause great damage both economically and environmentally. Populations may become quite dense, and can be a serious problem for boats and water control structures. Zebra mussels attach to hard surfaces such as rocks, piers, and flooded timber. They may also attach to pipes, water intake structures, boat hulls, and motor lower units often clogging them to the point of a malfunction.

More information on zebra mussels and other aquatic nuisance species is available at the KDWP website.

-30-

RECREATIONAL BOATING FATALITIES SUMMARY PINPOINTS ACCIDENT CAUSES

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 18:53:32 GMT

National figures third-lowest since reporting began; Kansas accidents drop 40 percent

Deaths resulting from recreational boating accidents fell in 2007, according to figures recently released by the United States Coast Guard. Nationally, the total dropped from 710 in 2006 to 688 in 2007, the lowest figure since 2004 and third lowest since the Coast Guard began collecting statistics specifically related to recreational boating.

In Kansas, boating accidents decreased by 40 percent -- from 42 in 2006 to 26 in 2007 -- but fatalities rose from five to six, the highest number in six years. Of the six fatalities, four involved capsized paddle-sport craft such as kayaks and canoes. One involved personal watercraft (PWC) and the other a motorboat. Alcohol was involved in eight of the 26 accidents and three of the six fatalities.

Top causes for all accidents remain fairly consistent with previous years. Operator inattention, careless/reckless operation, passenger/skier misbehavior, excessive speed, and alcohol use are the top five contributing factors. Alcohol use is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Three-fourths of deaths occurred on boats where the operator had not received boating safety instruction. More than two-thirds of those killed in boating accidents drowned, and of those, 90 percent were not wearing life jackets.

In 2008, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks staff are asking all boat owners and operators to help reduce fatalities, injuries, property damage, and health care costs related to recreational boating accidents by taking personal responsibility for their own safety and the safety of their passengers. Essential steps include always wearing a life jacket and requiring passengers to do the same, never boating under the influence, and completing a boating safety course.

-30-

KDWP BOATING PROGRAM AWARDED GRANT FOR YOUTH EFFORTS

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 20:33:11 GMT

Variety of promotional events in planning stage

The Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF), in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association, has announced that the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks’ Boating Education Program has been selected as a 2008/2009 National Recreation and Park Association Take Me Fishing™ Anchor Agency. As one of 30 Anchor Agencies selected, KDWP’s efforts will serve as the foundation for park and recreation agencies and youth serving organizations to take leadership roles and ensure that recreational boating and fishing are sustained across the state of Kansas.

KDWP’s Boating Education Program will receive a grant of $10,000 to enhance existing recreational boating and fishing programs available to the youth of Kansas. Projects will include giving away free life jackets, fishing clinics, community events and festivals, and classroom programs. Events will be listed on the KDWP website as they are scheduled and also on the RBFF website.

-30-

KDWP POSTING NEW 'ALIEN INVADER' SIGNS AT LAKES ACROSS THE STATE

Wed, 28 May 2008 14:03:26 GMT

Aquatic nuisance species signs geared toward raising public awareness

It's the boating season, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) wants all boaters to have fun. However, staff want to ensure that boaters protect the resource they enjoy from dangerous aliens -- commonly called aquatic nuisance species (ANS).

KDWP staff are in the process of placing new ANS signs across the state to raise public awareness of precautions that must taken to prevent the spread of zebra mussels and other ANS. These signs are not all the same and target several different species in addition to zebra mussels, including Asian carp, white perch, and others. Signs will be placed at all KDWP managed areas to remind the public to take precautions every time they visit a lake.

In addition to specific species overviews, the signs will continue standard information on the prevention of ANS spread, including the following measures:

empty bait buckets on dry land, not into a lake or other water body;
never move fish caught from one body of water to another;
inspect equipment (boat, trailer, anchor, duck decoys, waders) and remove any visible organisms, vegetation, and mud;
wash equipment with 140-degree water, a 10-percent chlorine and water solution, or a hot saltwater solution;
drain all water from boat and equipment before leaving a water body;
do not release anything from an aquarium (water, plants, fish, or animals) into or near a body of water or storm drain; and
contact the Emporia Research Office at (620) 342-0658 or a local KDWP office if any aquatic nuisance species are found.

ANS may also be reported through KDWP's Operation Game Thief (toll-free: 1-877-426-3843).

-30-

BOATING EDUCATION COURSE ENHANCES SAFETY ON THE WATER

Fri, 11 May 2007 20:02:25 GMT

“Safe Boater Kit” among rewards for completing instructional course

With the growing number of recreational boaters on Kansas waters, the advantages of boater education have never been more apparent. As our lakes and rivers become busier and the types of boats more varied, it is increasingly important for boaters to learn safe boating techniques and laws.

Completing a Kansas Safe Boater course can help reduce the potential for boat accidents and promote safe, responsible, and ethical use of Kansas water resources. The classroom boating safety course consists of eight hours of classroom instruction in the principles of boating safety. Current class listings are available on the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) website. Online classes are also available at www.boaterexam.com or www.boat-ed.com .

Course participants will learn about boat classifications, hull designs, motors, legal requirements for registration and equipment, navigation rules, basic safety regulations, and waterway marking systems. Classes also cover getting underway, preparation, loading, boarding, cruising, docking, anchoring, knots, trailering, courtesy, and maintenance.

Passing a boating education course may result in a discount for boat or personal watercraft insurance. Participants who successfully complete the course may call the KDWP boater education coordinator at 620-672-0770 to receive a free Safe Boater Kit, which includes a cooler bag, key float, whistle, pocket first aid kit, carabiner light, and other informational items.

-30-

BOATING EDUCATION OFFERS SAFETY ON THE WATER

Fri, 28 Apr 2006 16:48:47 GMT

The number of recreational boaters using Kansas's waterways has grown tremendously over the past decade. As our waterways become more crowded and the types of boats using the water become more varied, it is increasingly important for boaters to become educated on safe boating techniques and laws. Boating safety course graduates can help ensure healthy, happy, and safe voyages for years to come.

Completing a Kansas Safe Boater Course can help reduce the potential for boat accidents, injuries and fatalities, reduce the potential for conflict between different types of boating activities and other resource users, and promote safe, responsible, and ethical use of the environment and our resources.

Course participants will learn all about boats, classification of boats, hull designs, motors, legal requirements including registration and equipment requirements, navigation rules, basic safety regulations, and waterway marking systems. Classes also cover getting underway, preparation, loading, boarding, cruising, docking, anchoring, knots, trailering, courtesy, and maintenance.

The classroom boating safety course consists of a basic eight hours of classroom instruction in the principles of boating safety. Check for current class listings on our website at www.kdwp.state.ks.us. Online classes are also available at www.boat-ed.com/kansas and www.boaterexam.com.

NEW, MORE DURABLE KANSAS SAFE BOATER CARD AVAILABLE

Thu, 12 Jan 2006 17:51:38 GMT

Boating safety course graduates can get new card for no charge

KDWP now offers a durable plastic card upon successful completion of the Kansas Boating Safety Course, replacing the paper cards that have been issued in the past. These cards will last longer and won’t become illegible if they get wet while boating. Anyone who currently has the paper or self-laminating card may request a replacement card by contacting KDWP Boating Education in Pratt.

There will be no cost to replace your card the first time, but for any subsequent replacement there will be an $11 charge. It is not necessary to have your old card with you. If you are unable to make it to one of these shows, please send your written request for replacement to:

KDWP Boating Education
512 SE 25th Ave
Pratt, KS 67124

Please include your full name, address, date of birth, and an estimated date of when you completed the course.

-30-