Watercraft inspection stations
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) can be transported on gear, equipment, and watercraft that has been used on or in contaminated waterbodies. Watercraft inspection stations help prevent the introduction and spread of AIS by identifying and decontaminating watercraft that may be contaminated. Stopping at watercraft inspection stations is mandatory and crucial for protecting our waters (RCW 77.135.120).
Request a watercraft inspection or look for stations along your route on the watercraft inspection page.
Early detection monitoring
Prevention isn’t always successful, so detecting the presence of AIS early is critical. Staff monitor waterbodies throughout the state for the presence of AIS using a variety of monitoring methods.
To see WDFW staff in action, check out our AIS YouTube Playlist.
Rapid response, emergency planning, and preparedness
Should AIS be detected in Washington, WDFW is ready to act. Rapid response planning and preparedness is key to addressing infestations before they can spread, making it more likely AIS will be eradicated or contained.
WDFW collaborates with partners and local, state, federal, and tribal governments to develop rapid response plans and to prepare to respond to detections. In 2019, WDFW alongside state, federal, and tribal governments participated in a first-of-its-kind mock detection exercise for invasive quagga and zebra mussels in Kettle Falls.
Rapid response plans for specific species can be found on the publications webpage.
AIS rules and regulations
It is against the law (RCW 77.135.040) to possess, transport or traffic prohibited invasive species or to release non-native species into state waters through intentional or unintentional means. This includes animals and plants hitchhiking on boats or field gear; aquarium or terrarium pets or plants; animals or plants used in research or education; unused live fishing bait; or live seafood purchased from a store.
It is illegal to transport aquatic invasive species from one waterbody to another in the state of Washington. Violators face a maximum penalty of one year in jail and $5,000 in fines.
If you find a potential invasive species, take photos, leave them in the waterbody you found it in, and report it using the Washington Invasive Species Council or the WA Invasives app (available in the Apple and Google app stores). Under Washington state regulations (WAC 220-640-120), prohibited species may be immediately killed and retained only if the person is certain about species identification and assumes responsibility for correct identification and adherence to state rules and fishing regulations.
Questions? Call WDFW's Aquatic Invasive Species hotline at 1-888-WDFW-AIS or email ais@dfw.wa.gov.