Idaho State Department of Agriculture Director gives quagga updates

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) —As we head into spring it’s time to start planning for the recreation season. That’s exactly what the Idaho State Department of Agriculture is doing to continue its fight against the quagga mussel.

The mussel was found in the river at centennial park late last year, and after an extensive treatment plan that closed parts of the snake river. Some still remain closed for recreation, as ISDA is still waiting on testing to determine if the quagga has been removed from the water. As the temperature warms up and people head to the water the department will be doing the same thing. It’s important to have the support and understanding of the community as they work to prevent the quagga from impacting more of our waterways. As we all can understand, Idaho water is essential for agriculture and power, which is why the department has such an aggressive plan.

ISDA Director Chanel Tewalt says, “The whole reason we care about a quagga mussel infestation is because of how important it is to the way that we use water in Idaho. So, whether you’re a power user, you’re a recreationist, or you’re an irrigator we have to make sure that an infestation doesn’t occur in Idaho. That is the biggest reason we’re here. We also know we need to balance that with getting folks back on the water. We don’t want to keep this closed indefinitely or while we await results and so we really need that public participation and truly the public has always been the greatest asset in this program overall.”

That public understanding and participation is critical. Those that recreate the snake must have their boats hot washed. Thanks to the legislature they’ll be sampling more and have two additional hot wash stations. And some new regulations for those entering the state from other recreation spots.

“It’s going to be a requirement now for any out of state boat coming into Idaho to recreate they’re going to need to stop proactively at one of our stations and get a hot wash before launching in Idaho water. We know that is our greatest area of risk and that’s what we’re trying to mitigate with that legislation, and it also has requirements on pull the plus so we’re not hauling ballasted water from one water body to another. Those are really simple measures that can mitigate risk a lot, said Director Tewalt.

The hot wash station at centennial park is open now with the others opening later.

More information on the quagga mussel can be found here.

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