Boat Washing Stations
Preventing aquatic invasive species in the Upper Missouri River
More Boat Wash Stations to Come
UMOWA established the first boat washing station in the Craig, Montana area and plans to collaborate with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to install additional facilities throughout the Upper Missouri corridor. Expanding the network of wash stations is critical to keeping aquatic invasive species out of our waters.
The Importance of Boat Wash Stations
UMOWA partnered with stakeholders and Missouri River Trout Shop to install the first boat washing station in Craig. The station is open to the public at no charge and includes a high-pressure washer, cleaning supplies, and a depository for trash.
By making it easy and free for boaters to clean their watercraft, UMOWA helps prevent the spread of invasive organisms from one water body to another, protecting the health of the Upper Missouri River for generations to come.
What is AIS?
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are live organisms that are easily spread between water bodies. One mistake can potentially infest a new water body, causing irreversible damage to native ecosystems. Invasive mussels, plants, and other organisms can clog waterways, outcompete native species, and alter entire aquatic habitats.
Follow Montana guidelines to protect native aquatic species: always clean, drain, and dry your watercraft, equipment, and gear before moving between water bodies.
Clean, Drain, Dry
Learn more about how you can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.