Boat inspections to check for mussels to resume on I-5

MEDFORD, Ore. – Boat inspections to keep invasive species out of Oregon’s lakes and waterways are set to resume along Interstate 5.

The Mail Tribune of Medford reports that the state’s boat-inspection station near Ashland is reopening Tuesday to enforce mandatory checks. Any vehicle carrying a boat north on I-5 at the port of entry station must stop for a mandatory inspection for non-native plants and mussels known to damage ecosystems.

The checks are part of a $500,000 program meant to stave off zebra and quagga mussels and other invasive species that could overrun Oregon’s waters.

There is no penalty for boat owners found to be contaminated while at the inspection station, but anyone launching boats with aquatic vegetation on them risks a $287 fine.