LARAMIE – Aquatic invasive species boat inspection stations at major points of entry in southeast Wyoming will officially open on Saturday, April 13. These include the Highway 287 Port of Entry in Laramie, the Interstate 80 Port of Entry and the Interstate 25 Visitor Center check stations in Cheyenne.

All watercraft on Wyoming waters must display a 2019 AIS decal, and inspections will go faster for boaters who buy an AIS decal before boating in the state. Buy decals online here. or at license-selling agents statewide. Boaters will receive AIS decals by mail within 15 days. If they boat in Wyoming before they receive their decal, they must be prepared to present their paper or digital receipt (valid for 15 days from purchase date) as proof of purchase. Motorized watercraft decals are $10 (in-state) and $30 (out-of-state). Non-motorized watercraft decals are $5 (in-state) and $15 (out-of-state). Non-motorized inflatable watercraft 10 feet or shorter are exempt. Decals are valid for the calendar year.

Inspectors check for AIS decals, look for mussels and other invasive species, check for mud, aquatic plants or other debris which can harbor invasive species, and verify that water has been drained from the boat. It is important that boats are dried after each use. Recommended drying times for boats only using Wyoming waters are at least five days in the summer, 18 days in the spring or fall, and three days in the winter when temperatures are freezing.

Between March 1 and Nov. 30, watercraft transported into the state must be inspected before launching in any Wyoming water. Year-round, watercraft that has been in any water infested with zebra or quagga mussels within the previous 30 days must be inspected prior to launching All WGFD regional offices and a number of other locations offer year-round inspections.

Because inspection locations at borders are not open 24 hours, you may need to go to an alternative location for an inspection. Find certified inspection locations. Or call 1-877-WGFD-AIS for a list of inspection stations, including location and dates and hours of operation.