The State of Colorado's Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) regulations were approved by the Parks Board on Friday, February 20, 2009 at a meeting held at the Double Tree Hotel in Westminster.
View the approved regulations.
In response to the threats posed by Aquatic Nuisance Species, like zebra and Quagga mussels, Colorado State Parks recently approved statewide inspections to prevent the introduction of new ANS and at the same time limiting the spread of existing ones. All boats and other floating devices of any kind including their content, motors, trailers and other associated equipment are subject to inspections for any of these nasty exotic invasive species identified as Aquatic Nuisance Species prior to launch or departure from state park waters.
State Parks has set up inspection programs in parks with reservoirs to prevent the spread of ANS by recreational boating or any other human means. Recognizing the serious impact that can arise from ANS, State Parks have taken a strategic position that underscores the need for a robust ANS program. The risk and cost is too high once ANS infestation has reached a critical level.
In the summer of 2008, State Parks ran a successful inspection program in which thousands of boats were inspected. Part of the program was to educate the public about the risk and problems associated with ANS and why State Parks is requiring boats to be inspected for ANS. In subsequent summers, we have seen a great deal of cooperation from boaters. And as State Parks continue with a comprehensive ANS inspection program, we expect the usual cooperation from boaters with our inspection personnel when boaters pull up to an inspection point.
Please be advised a boater may be denied access if the boater fails to cooperate at an inspection point, or the boat may be placed under quarantine if inspectors feel there is a serious risk of spreading ANS.
To learn more about ANS, click here.
Please contact Gene Seagle (303-866-3203 x 4343) with any questions about the ANS program.