Here’s an update on boating regulations for Larimer County to combat the spread of invasive mussels, from Miles Blumhardt writing for the Fort Collins Coloradoan. From the article:
To combat the potential spread of these exotic mussels that can cause significant damage to waterways, Horsetooth Reservoir, Carter Lake and Boyd Lake have started conducting inspections of boats before they can be put into these waters. Also, Larimer County has restricted boating hours on Horsetooth Reservoir and Carter Lake to allow for the inspections. Boating hours are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily through Sept. 30 with reduced inspection hours thereafter. Boat launching will not be allowed outside of those hours.
Larimer County and state parks staff said there will be minimal delays in launching boats due to the inspections, which they said take less than 5 minutes. To reduce the inconvenience, boaters can have their boats inspected when they come off the water. If the boat and trailer are found to be clean, they will be tagged and allowed to bypass having the boat and trailer inspected on the next outing.
Larimer County is hoping to have off-site inspections up and running before the busy Memorial Day Weekend.