DILLON, Colo. ” The threat of zebra mussels means boaters at Dillon Reservoir will face mandatory inspections, possible quarantines and sharply limited boat-launching opportunities.

Biologists and water managers say those steps, backed by public awareness of the issue, are needed to protect Dillon Reservoir’s fisheries and water quality.

Experience in other states has shown that inspecting and cleaning boats greatly reduces the chances of contamination, but only a drying period will kill mussels.

There will be a decontamination station at the Frisco Bay Marina.

Zebra mussels and other similar species are a direct and immediate threat to Dillon Reservoir. The aggressive mussels quickly spread and can cause costly damage to boats and water supply systems, according to a press release from the Town of Dillon.

The only boat launching areas for the Dillon Reservoir will be at the Dillon and Frisco marinas. The launch ramp at the Dillon Marina will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. The launch ramp at the Frisco Bay Marina will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily, weather permitting.

The new inspection and cleaning procedures at Dillon Reservoir apply to all boats, including un-trailered boats such as kayaks, canoes and sailboats. An inspection and tagging program has been created to streamline boat launching and to minimize the inconvenience to boaters.

Boats may be inspected and cleaned, followed by a quarantine or drying period.

The recent discovery of zebra mussels in Pueblo Reservoir has heightened concerns throughout the state. State and federal officials, as well as many municipalities, are moving quickly to prevent the spread of these destructive mussels. Many are considering similar inspection and cleaning procedures at Front Range lakes and reservoirs during the upcoming boating season.

More Information can be found on the Web for inspection, cleaning and drying procedures at, http://www.ci.westminster.co.us/articles/zebramusselinspectioncleaningprogram.pdf (PDF, 23 kb)

Further questions can be answered at the Dillon Marina (970) 468-5100, or Frisco Bay Marina (970) 668-4334.